Pharmac has proposed funding new treatment options for cystic fibrosis patients with qualifying mutations, including young children.
This will begin on 1 April 2026.
The proposal expands access to Trikafta (elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor) and Kalydeco (ivacaftor) for everyone with eligible mutations. It also funds a new treatment, Alyftrek (vanzacaftor/tezacaftor/deutivacaftor).
Approximately 35 people are expected to benefit in the first year, rising to 47 after five years.
“Trikafta has already changed the lives of hundreds of New Zealanders with cystic fibrosis,” said Pharmac Director of Pharmaceuticals Adrienne Martin.
“Since we funded it in 2023 for people aged 6 years and above, over 400 people have benefitted. We are now proposing to fund Trikafta for more people so it can be used as soon as clinically appropriate, regardless of age.”
“Cystic fibrosis starts causing harm very early in life. Funding these medicines for all age groups would help more young children with cystic fibrosis live longer, healthier lives,” Martin said.
“It would also mean children could begin treatment as soon as clinically appropriate, giving families greater peace of mind.”
Cystic fibrosis is a long-term condition affecting about 500 New Zealanders, including children. It has no cure, and those with it often face shorter lifespans.
Trikafta currently holds Medsafe approval for people aged two and older, while Alyftrek is approved for children aged six and older.
“Funding these treatments would also benefit the health system,” Martin said.
“People wouldn’t need to visit the hospital as often, and they’d need less treatment.”
Pharmac seeks feedback on the proposal from people with cystic fibrosis, their whānau, healthcare professionals, advocacy groups, and other interested parties.
Consultation closes at 5pm on Wednesday, 11 February 2026.