Pharmacists warn drug shortage affecting cancer patients
Summary
Pharmacists are warning that there is a shortage of a drug called Creon, used by patients with pancreatic cancer and other conditions, which is causing patients to skip meals. The shortage is due to European-wide supply issues, and the UK government is trying to address the problem, but experts expect it to continue into next year.Key Facts
- Creon is a medicine that helps with digestion and is used by patients with pancreatic cancer, cystic fibrosis, and chronic pancreatitis.
- More than 61,000 people in the UK need Creon.
- Due to the shortage, some patients are skipping meals to make their medicine last longer.
- The UK is experiencing European-wide supply problems with Creon, caused by manufacturing constraints.
- The government has a protocol in place to allow pharmacists to give alternative medicines, but other drugs are also in short supply.
- Experts predict the shortages might last until next year.
- The National Pharmacy Association found that most of its members find current shortage management strategies inadequate.
- Calls have been made for a national strategy to address the shortages.
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