Efavirenz (Stocrin) 200 mg and 600 mg tablets: Supply issue

Affected product

Pharmac has been advised that the supplier has discontinued its efavirenz tablets. We appreciate that this may be concerning to people who take efavirenz. 

Stock of the 600 mg tablets has run out at the supplier level. About 4 months' normal usage of the 200 mg tablets remains.

• Chemical: Efavirenz
• Presentation: Tab 600 mg
• Brand: Stocrin
• Pharmacode: 2060094
• Subsidy: $63.38
• Measure / Qty: per 30

Alternative listed 1 April 2024

We listed an alternative brand of efavirenz 600 mg tablets from 1 April 2024 so that people can continue to access their treatment. This product will be supplied until a decision can be made on the future of this product. 

• Brand: Efavirenz Milpharm
• Pharmacode: 2676915 
• Subsidy: $65.38
• Measure / Qty: 30
• Wastage applies - Section 29

This product is not Medsafe approved but is approved in the UK. 

Datasheet for Efavirenz Milpharm on Medicines.org.uk(external link)

Prescribing and supplying an unapproved medicine

Section 29 of the Medicines Act 1981 allows for medicines that are not Medsafe approved to be prescribed and supplied to people. The medicine must be prescribed by someone registered with the Medical Council of New Zealand – such as, a doctor. 

We know supplying a medicine under section 29 is not ideal. In this case, however, this will allow people to access an appropriate treatment. 

We apologise for any inconvenience this causes. 

Advice for prescribing under section 29 – BPAC website(external link) 

Prescriber and pharmacist requirements for section 29 medicines – Medsafe website (external link)

Medsafe’s section 29 Declaration / Notification Form [DOC](external link)

What patients need to know about unapproved medicines – Healthify website(external link)

Next steps

We will consult with affected people about possibility of discontinuing Efavirenz 200 & 600 mg tablets. 

Who to contact

If you have questions about this issue, email enquiry@pharmac.govt.nz

Please include as much information as you can about the product (presentation, brand, pharmacode) and who your wholesaler is.  

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