Sign in. It’s quick, free and it’s up to you.
An account is an optional way to support the work we do. Find out more.
Julien Behal/PA Wire
Medicine
New deal means some cheaper drugs on the way, says James Reilly
The price of off-patent medicines will be reduced under a new deal agreed between the HSE and the body representing the pharmaceutical industry.
THE PRICE OF some medicines is set to be reduced, the Minister for Health has announced.
An agreement has been struck between the Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association and the HSE which will see the cost of some off-patent medicines cut, saving the HSE some €20 million per year.
The move will see 30 per cent cut off the price of an off-patent medicine once a generic equivalent comes on the market. Previously the cost was cut by 20 per cent under a previous deal.
The price will fall even further once the generic equivalent has been on the market for just under two years.
The move is expected to save €10 million for the remaining months of this year, and €20 million in a full year.
As part of the agreement the HSE will give its approval to the reimbursement of drugs which in the normal course of events would have been approved for reimbursement under the schemes.
have your say