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Has azacitidine been funded by Pharmac for the treatment of acute myeloid leukaemia in patients who are unfit for intensive chemotherapy; and if not, is it under consideration for funding?

Answered Question 18920 (2026)
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Asked by

Ayesha Verrall

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • Has azacitidine been funded by Pharmac for the treatment of acute myeloid leukaemia in patients who are unfit for intensive chemotherapy; and if not, is it under consideration for funding?

Answered by

Hon David Seymour

Member for Epsom · ACT Party · Associate Minister of Health

Answer

Yes, azacitidine is funded by Pharmac for the treatment of acute myeloid leukaemia in patients who are unable to receive intensive chemotherapy. I am advised by Pharmac that azacitidine has been funded since 1 May 2025. I refer the Member to the following link for more information: https://www.pharmac.govt.nz/news-and-resources/consultations-and-decisions/2025-04-decision-to-widen-access-to-medicines-for-blood-cancer-inflammatory-bowel-diseases-eczema-and-rheumatoid-arthritis