Advocates in Australia are calling for taxpayer-funded access to weight loss medications for women living with Polyendrocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS). The Polyendrocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome Association of Australia (POSAA) is urging for GLP-1 drugs to be included on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for individuals with the condition.
PMOS, a chronic hormonal condition formerly known as polycystic ovarian syndrome, affects one in eight women. Symptoms can include irregular periods, excess hair growth, weight gain, and hair thinning. The lifelong condition, which has no cure, is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and endometrial cancer.
While GLP-1 drugs are not specifically approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for PMOS treatment, patients are currently receiving these medications off-label. POSAA spokesperson Lorna Berry highlighted that the high cost of these medications, potentially hundreds of dollars monthly, means some women are unable to access them.
The Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet next month to consider a revised proposal from Novo Nordisk to list Wegovy for obesity. Wegovy contains semaglutide, the same active ingredient as Ozempic, but in a higher dose. Ozempic is currently listed on the PBS only for diabetes treatment.