Further details have now been announced about the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee’s rapid review of medicines listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.
The review will examine how treatments are being used on the PBS, whether there is clinical evidence comparing different treatments not previously considered by the PBAC, and whether current PBS listings remain aligned with contemporary clinical guidelines and practice. All PBS-listed medicines for relapsing-remitting MS will be included, along with rituximab, which is sometimes used to treat MS.
The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing is undertaking the work through the Post-market Review Framework, with a report requested for the PBAC’s December 2026 intracycle meeting. The process will include clinical and patient input.
MS Australia’s position
MS Australia welcomes a structured, evidence-based review that includes the voices of people living with MS and their clinicians. We will participate constructively and continue to advocate strongly for affordable, dependable access to the full range of effective MS treatments.
Our message remains clear: MS is complex and highly individual. No single treatment is right for every person or at every stage of the disease. Treatment decisions must be guided by the evidence, clinical expertise and each person’s circumstances—not by a one-size-fits-all approach.
We want the review to:
- recognise the diversity of MS and the need for personalised treatment
- acknowledge the importance of first-line access to a broad range of PBS-listed medicines, including high-efficacy treatments
- properly consider differences between treatments, including effectiveness, safety, mode of administration and suitability for individual patients
- ensure lived experience and specialist clinical expertise are central to the process
- support stable, affordable access now and into the future, without unnecessary treatment disruption or delay.
Review Timelines
PBAC will commence start a six week public consultation in mid-August 2026, and review evidence from August through to November 2026. The draft report will be considered by PBAC on 9 December 2026, with the PBAC Review outcomes to be published 29 January 2027. Further details regarding process and indicative timelines can be found here.
What this means for you
Ocrevus, Kesimpta and other PBS-listed MS medicines remain available while the review is underway. There is no need to change your treatment because of the review. If you have questions about your medication, please speak with your neurologist, MS nurse or treating healthcare professional.
MS Australia understands how important treatment certainty and choice are to people living with MS. We will keep the community informed as consultation details are confirmed and as the review progresses.
