Last updated on 04/04/2023

 

Asthma Australia is pleased to see Nucala® (mepolizumab) is now listed on the PBS for Australians with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRwNP). 

Nucala is the first biologic add-on treatment to be PBS-subsidised for the treatment of severe chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, which is a real milestone. This biologic treatment is already listed for PBS subsidy for the treatment of severe asthma. 

Chronic rhinosinusitis is a common chronic respiratory disease that affects one in ten Australians and for people also affected by allergic asthma, this medicine could be life changing. 

An estimated 25-30% of people living with chronic rhinosinusitis also have nasal polyps (soft jelly-like tissue growths within the nasal cavity). 

Nucala works by changing the process that causes sinus inflammation and polyps in your nose. It can help reduce the size of nasal polyps. reducing the number of eosinophils in the blood and can reduce the size of nasal polyps.  

People living with CRSwNP experience symptoms that impact their day-to-day life which can include nasal blockage and discharge, congestion, loss of smell and facial pressure. These symptoms can have a significant impact on their quality of life affecting mental wellbeing and sleep.

More information here.

Talk to your doctor about whether this medicine is suitable for you and if you meet the eligibility criteria.