But better access to a new treatment option could offer relief the 15-year-old so desperately needs.

GlaxoSmithKline’s (GSK) Mepolizumab (Nucala) was added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) on January 1, for eligible Australian patients with severe refractory eosinophilic asthma, as an add-on treatment to their existing asthma therapy.

The medication is designed to help reduce the frequency of asthma flare-ups and reduce the oral steroid dose taken by patients.

Abby suffers from severe bouts of “storm asthma” often triggered by a change in weather, and is regularly hospitalised because of it.

Such is its severity, her lung collapsed during a recent episode.

Mum, Tracey, said her daughter understood the warning signs and takes precautions to avoid exposure. But inevitably, some days are better than others.

She said Abby is on a number of medications already, including Ventolin, but is keen to see if this new PBS listing could assist further.

Respiratory specialist and director at Monash Lung and Sleep, Professor Phil Bardin, said the medication will assist patients who continue to have symptoms and flare-ups, despite being on maximal asthma therapy. 

“Patients with severe refractory eosinophilic asthma do not have typical asthma,” Prof Bardin said. 

“It can be a struggle to control their day-to-day symptoms despite maximal doses of prescribed medications. Many patients continue to have frequent asthma flare-ups, which may require hospitalisation, and can have a severe negative impact on their quality of life.

“It’s a big step forward to be able to offer a treatment specifically developed for this disease type.”

THE NUMBERS: Asthma