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Pharmacists are raising concerns about severe medicine shortages, with cancer patients being some of the worst affected. Creon, a vital pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy, is essential for patients with conditions like pancreatic cancer, cystic fibrosis, and chronic pancreatitis. More than 61,000 patients in the UK rely on this medication. Due to the scarcity of Creon, some patients are resorting to skipping meals to conserve their medication supply, as reported by the National Pharmacy Association (NPA).
The Department of Health and Social Care acknowledged the “European-wide supply issues” affecting the availability of Creon and assured that they are working closely with industry and the NHS to address the challenges faced by patients. Without access to Creon, patients experience weight loss and weakened strength, making it harder for them to undergo treatments like chemotherapy. Experts fear that shortages may persist until the following year.
In response to the ongoing shortage, the Department of Health and Social Care has extended a serious shortage protocol for Creon, reflecting the gravity of the situation. This protocol allows pharmacists to provide patients with alternative medications, although they note that other drugs are also in short supply. The department attributed the supply issues to manufacturing constraints that are prevalent across Europe.
The National Pharmacy Association expressed dissatisfaction with current measures for managing shortages, as a considerable number of surveyed members deemed them inadequate. Reports revealed that patients were going to great lengths, such as skipping meals and traveling long distances, to secure their essential medication. BBC News shed light on this issue in February, showcasing the struggles faced by patients like Alice from Birmingham, whose battle with pancreatic cancer has been compounded by the Creon shortage. Pancreatic clinicians and charities have urged the government to implement a national strategy to address this pressing issue
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
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