Outcome of consultation on the changes to the prescribing restrictions of riluzole
Advocacy, Treatments
2 October 2019
We have been closely following the Medsafe consultation on the changes to the prescribing restrictions of riluzole (trade name ‘Rilutek’).
In April we raised concerns that some of our clients had been prescribed riluzole by their general practitioner. Under the Medicines Act 1981, Rilutek can only be prescribed by specialist physicians who care for patients with Motor Neurone Disease, neurologists and palliative care physicians. This includes repeat prescriptions.
After communication with Medsafe, they agreed to publish a consultation on amending the prescribing restrictions. In July we informed you that MND New Zealand supports the proposed changes:
Current prescribing restrictions
Rilutek can only be prescribed by specialist physicians who care for patients with Motor Neurone Disease, neurologists and palliative care physicians.
Proposed change to prescribing restrictions
Medsafe proposes that the restrictions be amended to allow relevant prescribers to prescribe riluzole, where the prescribing decision is taken in collaboration with, or following consultation with, physicians who care for patients with Motor Neurone Disease, neurologists and palliative care physicians.
On 1st October Medsafe released the outcome of the consultation. 28 submissions were received, all supportive of the change.
From 7th October 2019, the prescribing restriction on riluzole is to be:
”Riluzole can only be prescribed by authorised prescribers where the prescribing decision is taken in collaboration with, or following consultation with, physicians who care for patients with Motor Neurone Disease, neurologists and palliative care physicians.”
Click here to read the full statement from Medsafe on the consultation and outcome.
MND New Zealand are pleased with this outcome and agree that it is important for all people living with MND to have adequate access to riluzole, in all areas of New Zealand.
If you have any questions or require further information on the prescribing of riluzole please talk to your Support Team Member.