Why Access to Zanubrutinib Matters for CLL
CLL Advocates NZ has joined forces with Waldenström NZ as part of the Forbidden Pharmacy campaign because access to a second-generation BTK inhibitor is important for people living with CLL. While ibrutinib is funded in New Zealand, some CLL patients experience cardiac side effects that mean they cannot continue treatment. For these patients, access to another BTK inhibitor such as zanubrutinib can provide an important alternative.
Meet Mel Arnold.
Mel lives with Waldenström macroglobulinaemia, a rare and incurable blood cancer, and also advocates for people with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. When her cancer progressed after chemoimmunotherapy, she had no further funded treatment options. In 2023, she gained compassionate access to zanubrutinib — a medicine that would otherwise cost nearly $15,000 a month and is funded in more than 60 countries, including Australia, but not New Zealand.
Mel’s story is one of thousands. This is why Waldenström’s NZ and CLL Advocates NZ are part of Forbidden Pharmacy — and why we’re calling on the next government to give Kiwis access to the medicines they need.
Watch Mel’s story, share it, and ask your MP where they stand.