New Antihypertensive Combinations PBS

New dual and triple antihypertensive combinations PBS listed — be aware of potential confusion

Published 10 November 2010

New fixed-dose antihypertensive combination tablets — including the first triple therapy — were listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) on 1 November 2010. The new combinations are:

˙olmesartan with amlodipine (Sevikar)

˙valsartan with amlodipine and hydrochlorothiazide (Exforge HCT)

The new listings are restricted to people whose hypertension is inadequately controlled with one of the component drugs at equivalent doses (for dual therapy) or any two of the component drugs (for triple therapy). Neither combination therapy is PBS subsidised for initial treatment of hypertension.

Fixed-dose combination products may be a convenient option for some people, as they reduce the number of tablets to be taken each day, can increase patient adherence and reduce out-of-pocket costs.

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