Last-hope prostate drug not funded | London | News | London Free Press

Link: http://www.lfpress.com/news/london/2012/08/22/20130276.html (via shareaholic.com)

Zytiga (Abiraterone Acetate)

• Pills taken daily with few side effects.
• Health Canada OK'd July 2011. Every province but Ontario funds it.
• Extends life an average four months and reduces pain.

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WHAT THE PROVINCE SAYS
Letter from Ontario Health Ministry to patient denying coverage:
"Although there is a well-conducted randomized controlled trial demonstrating a statistically and clinically significant increase in overall survival without substantial side effects in this group of patients . . . the cost effectiveness of this agent is not favourable. As a result, the (Committee to Evaluate Drugs) recommended that Zytiga not be funded."

The cost?  $5000/month.  (Don't know if that's $US or $Can.)