Mayne Pharma’s NEXTSTELLIS® Gains PBS Listing, Slashing Costs for Australian Women
Mayne Pharma’s innovative oral contraceptive NEXTSTELLIS® has secured reimbursement under Australia’s Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, making it significantly more affordable and broadening contraceptive options nationwide.
- PBS approval for NEXTSTELLIS® effective 1 October 2025
- First contraceptive pill with natural estrogen estetrol (E4) reimbursed
- Substantial patient cost reduction from over $328 to $31.60 per quarter
- Supports Senate recommendation for broader contraceptive access
- Mayne Pharma strengthens foothold in Australian women’s health market
PBS Listing Marks a Milestone for NEXTSTELLIS®
Mayne Pharma Group Limited has announced a significant development for women’s health in Australia with the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) approving reimbursement for its oral contraceptive, NEXTSTELLIS®. Starting 1 October 2025, this listing will make the pill far more accessible and affordable, aligning with broader healthcare goals to expand contraceptive options.
A Novel Contraceptive with a Natural Edge
NEXTSTELLIS® stands out as the first and only contraceptive pill approved in Australia containing estetrol (E4), a natural estrogen originally produced by the human body during pregnancy. Unlike traditional synthetic estrogens, the E4 in NEXTSTELLIS® is plant-derived, offering a formulation that closely mimics the body’s own hormones. Combined with drospirenone, a progestin, this pill represents a modern approach to contraception that may appeal to women seeking newer, potentially safer hormonal options.
Cost Reduction and Broader Access
Prior to PBS listing, the annual cost of NEXTSTELLIS® exceeded $328, a price point that limited its accessibility. With PBS reimbursement, general patients will pay just $31.60 for a three-month supply, dropping further to $25 from January 2026. Concession card holders benefit even more, paying only $7.70 for the same supply. This dramatic price cut is expected to encourage uptake, especially among women who previously found the cost prohibitive.
Responding to National Healthcare Priorities
The PBS listing also responds to recommendations from the 2023 Senate Community Affairs References Committee inquiry, which called for improved access to a wider range of hormonal contraceptives. NEXTSTELLIS® fits squarely within this policy direction, offering a newer contraceptive option subsidised by the government. With approximately 1.7 million Australian women of reproductive age using contraception annually, and around 520,000 accessing comparable oral contraceptives, the timing of this listing could influence market dynamics significantly.
Strategic Implications for Mayne Pharma
For Mayne Pharma, this PBS approval not only enhances patient access but also strengthens its position in the competitive women’s health sector. The company’s commitment to delivering innovative, safe, and accessible medicines is underscored by this milestone. While the announcement does not provide explicit sales forecasts, the reduced cost and government backing are likely to drive increased prescriptions and market share in Australia.
Bottom Line?
NEXTSTELLIS®’s PBS listing could reshape contraceptive choices and market share in Australia’s women’s health sector.
Questions in the middle?
- How quickly will NEXTSTELLIS® gain market share against established contraceptives?
- What impact will this listing have on Mayne Pharma’s overall Australian revenue?
- Will competitors respond with new products or pricing adjustments following this PBS approval?
