Saturday, 6 June 2026
Zoladex 3.6mg withdrawal, Late-term abortion bill proposed, Primary care funding decline
- 01
AstraZeneca to withdraw Zoladex 3.6mg from Australian market
AstraZeneca announced the discontinuation of the goserelin 3.6mg implant (Zoladex) in Australia, effective November 2026, citing a 'commercial' decision. This withdrawal affects thousands of patients with breast cancer and endometriosis, prompting concerns among clinicians and patient groups about access to this cornerstone therapy. The company confirmed that the decision is unrelated to the drug's safety or efficacy, but did not provide specific reasons for the withdrawal. The three-monthly 10.8mg implant will remain available, and AstraZeneca plans to expand its indications to include hormone receptor-positive breast cancer.
- 02
South Australian MP proposes new late-term abortion restriction bill
A South Australian MP, Sarah Game, plans to introduce her third bill in two years aimed at restricting late-term abortions after 25 weeks, except when necessary to save the mother's life. Local GP Dr Clare Keogh expressed concern that the proposal may deter vulnerable patients from seeking necessary care. Previous attempts to pass similar legislation have failed, and Dr Keogh noted that existing safeguards already govern late-term abortions in the state. She warned that the rhetoric surrounding such bills could discourage patients from seeking help due to stigma or uncertainty about legal risks.
- 03
Funding for primary care services drops to 5.5% of health spend
Funding for Australian primary care services has decreased from 8.0% in 2003 to 5.5% in 2023, indicating a deprioritisation of general practice. A study co-authored by RACGP president Professor Michael Wright reveals that while overall health spending has increased, the share allocated to primary care services, including bulk billing incentives and GP consult rebates, has fallen significantly. The research highlights a decline in the proportion of total health spending directed towards primary care, from 22% to 17% of primary healthcare expenditure. This trend suggests that funding growth for primary care is lagging behind other areas of the health system.
- 04
Lundbeck advances bocunebart for migraine prevention after trial results
Lundbeck plans to continue developing bocunebart, a new migraine prevention therapy, following positive results from a clinical trial. The therapy targets the PACAP protein, which is involved in migraine pain pathways. In the trial, patients receiving bocunebart reported a significant reduction in monthly migraine days compared to those on placebo. Analysts noted that while the results may not fully meet investor expectations, the drug shows promise, particularly for patients with chronic migraines. Lundbeck aims to position bocunebart alongside its existing migraine treatment, Vyepti.
via BioPharma Dive
- 05
New CPD Provider GP Refresh Enters Competitive Market
GP Refresh, a new player in Australia's independent continuing professional development (CPD) market, has launched with a unique format aimed at GPs. Founded by Gold Coast GP Dr Kish Nallapu, the program offers 53 CPD hours over two days, featuring 77 clinical topics presented in a rapid-fire format. This approach contrasts with established providers like HealthEd and GPCE, which focus on in-depth sessions. Dr Nallapu's investment of up to $24 million reflects his commitment to enhancing GP education, despite the competitive landscape.
- 06
New cancer pill shows 60% reduction in death risk
Daraxonrasib demonstrated a 60% reduction in the risk of death in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer, marking a significant advancement in treatment options. The results, presented at the ASCO meeting, received a standing ovation, reflecting the emotional impact of the findings. This development could influence future treatment protocols for this challenging cancer type.
MDDR is a news digest for medical professionals. It is not medical advice and should not be relied on for clinical decision-making.