Wellington, Aug 1 NZPA - A drug used to treat rheumatoid arthritis will now be offered to a wider range of people suffering a variety of ailments, Pharmac says.

Government drug funder PHARMAC is welcoming the increase in the pharmaceutical budget, which it says will help ensure people continue to have improving access to medicines.

Funding a wider range of condoms saves taxpayers money, increases choice and promotes better sexual health practices, PHARMAC says.

The Minister of Health has approved an increased community pharmaceuticals budget for the 2008/09 financial year. The budget of $653 million represents a $17 million increase on 2007/08.