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Written question asked by David Linden (Scottish National Party) on Monday, 29 April 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 1 May 2024. It was answered by Andrew Stephenson (Conservative) on Wednesday, 1 May 2024 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.


Pancreatin

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what information her Department holds on the availability of Creon 25000 across the UK.

Answer

We are aware of ongoing intermittent supply issues with Creon 25000 gastro-resistant capsules. These are due to manufacturing and active pharmaceutical ingredient constraints. The supplier has confirmed that stock of Creon 25000 gastro resistant capsules is now available, with further deliveries scheduled in May 2024. The Department has issued guidance to healthcare professionals regarding treatment of patients, while there was disruption to the supply of Creon 25000 gastro-resistant capsules. We continue to explore all management options to manage this issue. We have asked the supplier to continue confirming their future forecasts, and to inform us of any further gaps in supply of Creon 25000 gastro-resistant capsules.

Whilst we can’t always prevent supply issues, we have a range of well-established tools and processes to mitigate risks to patients. These include close and regular engagement with the suppliers, use of alternative strengths or forms of a medicine to allow patients to remain on the same product, expediting regulatory procedures, sourcing unlicensed imports from abroad, adding products to the restricted exports and hoarding list, use of Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs), and issuing NHS communications to provide management advice and information on the issue to healthcare professionals, so they can advise and support their patients.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
24095
Session
2023-24
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk