More than 10,000 Australians living with multiple sclerosis (MS) could lose affordable access to two vital medications due to an ongoing pricing dispute under Australia’s Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).

The disagreement is between the federal government and pharmaceutical companies over how the medicines should be priced.

If the drugs are removed from the PBS, some patients could face treatment costs of up to A$33,000 a year, placing life-changing medication out of reach.

Patient advocacy groups have warned the move could seriously affect the health and quality of life of thousands of people with MS.

The PBS advisory committee is meeting to consider the pricing dispute and determine the future of the medicines.

Health experts are urging all parties to reach a solution that keeps these essential treatments affordable and available for Australian patients.