Ruxolitinib on PBS for polycythemia vera
The MPN AA is delighted to advise that, as of today, 1 September 2025, ruxolitinib is available on the pharmaceutical benefits schedule (PBS) for the treatment of adult patients with polycythemia vera who are resistant to, or intolerant of hydroxycarbamide (hydroxyurea). We have copied and pasted below what we believe are the most relevant details from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC)’s recommendations.
‘‘…..the PBAC is satisfied that ruxolitinib provides, for some patients, a significant improvement in efficacy over best available therapy. The PBAC noted that while no statistically significant differences in progression-free survival or overall survival were reported in the clinical trial evidence, differences in these outcomes were assumed in the economic model and maintained throughout the 20 year time horizon……’
If you wanted to read any more detail, here is the link to the relevant PBAC page.
Polycythemia vera – new way of monitoring disease activity?
A European study has just been released suggesting a new way to monitor polycythemia vera patients’ disease activity.
Titled ‘Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte ratio as surrogate for JAK2V617F suppression and event-free survival in polycythemia vera’ it explores the value of using neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as a means of monitoring PV disease activity.
The study used data from three of the largest PV clinical trials, and evaluated the impact of PV therapies on the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio – and then its relationship with molecular response (reduction in allele burden) and clinical outcomes.
The full article is free to access HERE.
Conclusion
‘This study highlights the distinct effects of Hydroxyurea and Ropeg on leukocyte-derived biomarkers in PV. While both reduce leukocytosis and neutrophilia -key thrombosis drivers- Ropeg also normalizes NLR, lowers JAK2V617F VAF, and better preserves lymphopoiesis, suggesting potential to reduce thrombosis and modify disease progression. These findings support NLR as a predictive biomarker, reinforcing the importance of inflammation-targeted strategies in PV management.’
MPN Education Symposium in Perth and online
‘What does optimal management of MPNs look like in 2025?’
MPN AA, in partnership with the University of Western Australia School of Biomedical Sciences and Royal Perth Hospital, is proudly presenting an MPN Education Symposium.
The symposium will be all day on Saturday 25 October, WA time.
It is free to attend in person or online.
Who should attend?
MPN patients, family members, carers, friends, clinicians, researchers and people interested in learning more about MPNs are welcome to attend.
There will be opportunities to ask questions and meet and chat with other participants throughout the day.
FAQs are available on the Symposium registration page.
And for more details, including the Event program, see this page or use the QR code above.
