Betaferon (Interferon beta-1b)
interferon beta-1b 8 million units (250 microgram) injection [15 vials] (&) inert substance diluent [15 x 1.2 mL syringes], 1 pack · INJECTION · PBS code 8101J
STREAMLINEDWhat it costs
AU$668.82 PBS-determined price per 15 units
Most patients pay only the standard PBS co-payment, not the full price above — up to AU$25.00 per script (general) or AU$7.70 (concession/Safety Net) in 2026. The figure above is what the PBS pays the pharmacy; the Australian Government subsidises the rest. Always confirm the current amount with your pharmacist.
- • First listed on the PBS: 1996-11-01.
- • Repeats: 5.
- • PBS program: GE.
Eligibility criteria for subsidised access
The following is the government's own wording from the PBS Schedule, shown unchanged.
Listing of Pharmaceutical Benefits (NHL) - Schedule 4 part 1
Multiple sclerosis
Initial treatment
The condition must be diagnosed as clinically definite relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis by magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and/or spinal cord; or
The condition must be diagnosed as clinically definite relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, with written certification provided by a radiologist that a magnetic resonance imaging scan is contraindicated because of the risk of physical (not psychological) injury to the patient; AND
Patient must have experienced at least 2 documented attacks of neurological dysfunction, believed to be due to multiple sclerosis, in the preceding 2 years of commencing a PBS-subsidised disease modifying therapy for this condition; AND
Patient must be ambulatory (without assistance or support); AND
Must be treated by a medical practitioner; or
Must be treated by a nurse practitioner in consultation with a specialist physician.
Where applicable, the date of the magnetic resonance imaging scan must be recorded in the patient's medical records.
Listing of Pharmaceutical Benefits (NHL) - Schedule 4 part 1
Multiple sclerosis
Continuing treatment
The condition must be diagnosed as clinically definite relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis; AND
Patient must have previously received PBS-subsidised treatment with this drug for this condition; AND
Patient must not show continuing progression of disability while on treatment with this drug; AND
Patient must have demonstrated compliance with, and an ability to tolerate this therapy; AND
Must be treated by a medical practitioner; or
Must be treated by a nurse practitioner in consultation with a specialist physician.
Sponsor: Bayer Australia Ltd ABN 22 000 138 714
Not medical advice. Voxsanity republishes public PBS data in plain English. PBS listing status and criteria can change; always confirm current subsidised availability with your doctor or pharmacist.
Source: Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), © Commonwealth of Australia. Data used and redistributed under permission; not modified from its original wording where displayed verbatim.