23 Jun 2021

Unsolved murder forces Pharmac to change NZ epilepsy drug

From Morning Report, 7:56 am on 23 June 2021

Some people with epilepsy will have to switch to a new medication after the current sole-supplier quits the New Zealand market later this year.

Drug-buyer Pharmac has reached an agreement with a new drug supplier, and some fees will be waived so patients can discuss the change with their family doctor.

The situation has arisen because of a mysterious, unsolved murder overseas.

Pharmac's director of operations Lisa Williams spoke to Susie Ferguson.