Patient eligibility
The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) subsidises treatment with armodafinil and modafinil under the National Health Act 1953, section 85 for patients with narcolepsy.
Patients must be eligible for the PBS and meet the relevant restriction criteria.
The Schedule of Pharmaceutical Benefits on the PBS website outlines the restrictions for prescribing armodafinil and modafinil.
Treatment specifics
To be eligible for PBS-subsidised treatment with these medicines, patients must be treated by a qualified sleep medicine practitioner or a neurologist.
Armodafinil and modafinil are not PBS-subsidised when used in combination with each other or with PBS-subsidised dexamfetamine sulfate.
Authority applications
Applying for initial treatment for narcolepsy without cataplexy
Please note: You don’t need to complete this application in writing when you request PBS authority online.
Applications for initial authority approval to prescribe PBS-subsidised armodafinil or modafinil to treat narcolepsy without cataplexy can be made either:
- using the Online PBS Authorities system
- in writing and use HPOS Form upload
- in writing and mail to PBS Complex Drugs Programs.
All written applications must include:
- details of the proposed prescription or prescriptions
- the completed narcolepsy without cataplexy - armodafinil or modafinil - initial authority application form
- relevant attachments.
Applying for initial treatment for narcolepsy with cataplexy
Applications for initial authority approval to prescribe PBS-subsidised armodafinil or modafinil to treat narcolepsy with cataplexy can be made either:
- in real time using the Online PBS Authorities system
- by calling the PBS Complex Drugs Programs enquiry line.
Applying for continuing or change of treatment
Applications to continue or change authority approval to prescribe PBS-subsidised armodafinil or modafinil to treat narcolepsy can be made either:
- in real time using the Online PBS Authorities system
- by calling the PBS Complex Drugs Programs enquiry line.
Applications can be made by the patient’s medical practitioner if the patient has previously been issued an authority prescription for these medicines.
More information
Call the PBS Complex Drugs Programs enquiry line for more information.