Australians living with Parkinson's disease are celebrating after the Federal Government listed a breakthrough treatment on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), making it affordable for thousands of patients.

VYALEV® (foslevodopa with foscarbidopa) is administered through a 24-hour infusion under the skin and helps restore dopamine levels in the brain.

The treatment significantly reduces the debilitating "on and off" periods that persist with traditional oral medications.

The drug received Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approval last year but remained unaffordable for most patients until the PBS listing, achieved through a tireless campaign by Parkinson's Australia.

"Parkinson's Australia has advocated for access to VYALEV® in Australia to ensure people living with advanced Parkinson's have a wider choice of treatments that can help improve daily living," said the organisation's CEO.

"Throughout this process consumer voices have been vital in helping decision makers understand the impacts of living with Parkinson's."

The treatment offers hope for patients whose oral medications are losing effectiveness.

One patient with Young Onset Parkinson's said the treatment could be life-changing.

"Oral medications have begun to lose their efficacy for me. I have lots of on and off periods. This new treatment will mean I can be a better dad, a better husband and stay in the workforce longer."

One trial participant, who has lived with Parkinson's for over 30 years, described the transformative effects. "This has given me another chance for life," she said.

"After being housebound for five years I've regained my mobility and independence."

With over 150,000 Australians living with Parkinson's—the fastest growing neurological condition and second most prevalent after dementia—the PBS listing represents a significant victory for the community.

Parkinson's is an incurable, progressive condition characterised by tremor, muscle rigidity, slowness of movement and balance difficulties.

As it progresses, patients experience increased motor fluctuations, swallowing difficulties, falls and involuntary movements, often requiring assistance with daily activities.

The PBS listing ensures this advanced treatment option is now accessible to eligible patients across Australia.

Attached is a video from 9 News Australia, form 2024. It depicts the dramatic improvement and quality of life a woman experienced after being part of the medication's trial. Medical professionals can be heard on the video saying this lady's result is seen with 50 per cent of all patients.

Considering the dramatic difference to a person's life, it is clear to see the vast difference, improved quality of life and independence will mean for patients.

The Riverine Grazier is our 'sister' publication of sorts, and this year we published a two-part feature on life with Parkinson's disease, as many people in hay and also the back country suffer with this debilitating condition.

https://www.thegrazier.com.au/news/life-with-parkinsons-disease-in-australia

Visit this link to see the Nine news video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NdXQQ10HUb0&t=138s