New Schizophrenia Drug Cobenfy Seeks Inclusion in Israel Health Basket
A novel schizophrenia medication, Cobenfy, has been nominated for Israel's health basket, offering a groundbreaking non-dopamine treatment approach despite its high private cost.
A breakthrough drug for schizophrenia, Cobenfy, has been submitted for Israel's national health basket for the second consecutive year, rated top priority by the Israel Psychiatric Association. Developed by Bristol Myers Squibb and approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the medication offers a novel mechanism of action that does not rely on direct dopamine receptor blockade, which has been the cornerstone of psychiatric treatment for over 70 years.
Despite high expectations, private financing remains out of reach for many patients, costing approximately 8,000 shekels per package. While available through supplemental health insurance plans, the Ministry of Defense, and compassionate use programs, full accessibility remains limited. Advocates emphasize that mental health patients often rely on disability allowances, making the unsubsidized cost prohibitive for vulnerable households.
Traditional antipsychotic medications frequently induce severe side effects, including excessive salivation, tremors, weight gain, and motor disturbances, which hinder patients' social integration and employment. Clinical trials involving 690 patients demonstrated that Cobenfy successfully reduced symptoms without significant weight gain or movement disorders, while improving cognitive functions such as concentration and memory.
Experts stress that mental health funding in Israel remains critically low compared to OECD standards, accounting for approximately 6% of public health expenditures. Healthcare leaders urge the health basket committee to include the medication, arguing that effective treatment prevents severe psychotic relapses, reduces hospitalization rates, and saves lives.
