People living with bipolar disorder can soon access life-changing medication at a fraction of the cost following seven years of advocacy by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP).

The College has successfully secured subsidised access to lamotrigine for people living with bipolar disorder, marking a significant victory for patient care.

From this year Australians with bipolar disorder will be able to access lamotrigine through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) at substantially reduced costs, paying approximately $25 per prescription (or $7.70 with a concession card) instead of full private prices.

RANZCP President Dr Astha Tomar said the outcome represents a major win for patients, families, and clinicians.

“This opens new treatment paths for people living with bipolar disorder and reaffirms the College's commitment to improving access to effective, evidence-based care" Dr Tomar said.

“Lamotrigine has long been recommended in Australian clinical guidelines as a first-line treatment for bipolar depression and prevention of mood episodes. Until now, many patients have been forced to pay full private prices, often amounting to hundreds of dollars each year.

"For many families already managing the significant personal, social and financial impacts of bipolar disorder, these out-of-pocket costs have put effective treatment out of reach. This listing removes a major barrier and supports continuity of care.

“This is a significant outcome, achieved through persistent, evidence-driven advocacy focused on patient benefit.”

Lamotrigine offers important advantages, including improved safety profiles and lower risk of birth defects over alternatives like valproate, which can cause birth defects when used by either parent.

RANZCP continues its advocacy efforts to expand access to other essential medications with the Therapeutic Goods Administration and Te Pātaka Whaioranga (Pharmac) for people living with severe and complex mental health conditions.

"We remain committed to breaking down barriers to evidence-based treatments for Australians living with mental health conditions," Dr Tomar said.

ENQUIRIES: For more information, or to arrange an interview call Dishi Gahlowt on +61 437 315 911 or email media@ranzcp.org.  

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists is a membership organisation that prepares medical specialists in the field of psychiatry, supports and enhances clinical practice, advocates for people affected by mental illness and advises governments and other groups on mental health care. For information about our work, our members or our history, visit www.ranzcp.org.

In Australia: If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or www.lifeline.org.au or the Suicide Callback Service on 1300 659 467 or www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au.

In New Zealand: If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline NZ on 0800 543 354 or www.lifeline.org.nz or the Suicide Crisis Helpline on 0508 828 865 or www.lifeline.org.nz/suicide-prevention.