Australians with stage 4 colorectal cancer are among those who will benefit from new drug listings on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) this month.
Fruzaqla (Fruquintinib) will be listed for the first time for the treatment of stage 4 or metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) for patients who have not benefited or would not benefit from certain other common treatments.
These patients have cancer that began in the colon or rectum which has spread to other parts of the body, most commonly the liver, lungs, abdomen or pelvis.
Fruzaqla is a highly selective vascular endothelial growth factor receptor inhibitor which treats mCRC by targeting the tumour's blood supply and inhibiting tumour growth and metastasis.
There are around 15,000 new cases of colorectal cancer diagnosed in Australia each year. In 2025, around 850 patients accessed a comparable treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer.
Without the PBS subsidy, patients could pay around $26,000 per prescription.
Axhidrox (Glycopyrronium) is also being listed on the PBS, to treat patients with severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis.
Axillary hyperhidrosis causes excessive, uncontrollable sweating which can significantly affect a person's mental wellbeing and overall quality of life.
Axhidrox works by blocking nerve signals that stimulate sweat glands.
In 2025, around 11,000 patients accessed a comparable treatment for severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis.
Without the PBS subsidy, patients could pay around $160 per prescription. PBS listing means eligible patients will pay a maximum of $25 per script, or just $7.70 with a concession card.
Since July 2022, the Australian Government has approved extra funding for 437 new and amended listings on the PBS.
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
"Sadly, the prognosis for stage 4 colorectal cancer is not good, but we are helping more people access the medicine they need to help improve and extend their lives.
"Listing Fruzaqla on the PBS means people with this insidious disease can focus on their health, instead of trying to find tens of thousands of dollars for their treatment.
"Every listing we add to the PBS helps Australians access the medicines they need at an affordable price - a maximum of just $25 per script."
