NEW ZEALAND'S PHARMAC TO SUBSIDIZE PLAVIX

New Zealand's Pharmaceutical Management Agency (PHARMAC) on Oct. 1 began a program to subsidize clopidogrel, which is sold under the brand name Plavix, for people with acute heart problems. The drug is used to prevent blood clots.

Cardiovascular disease is New Zealand's biggest health risk, according to the agency. The drug will be available to patients as a three-month treatment following acute heart problems, such as heart attacks, as well as to people with potential heart problems who cannot take aspirin.

It is estimated that up to 6,000 people will benefit from the program in the first year, according to PHARMAC's Medical Director Peter Moodie. PHARMAC estimates that the cost of subsidizing clopidogrel will be up to $7 million each year.