Eumovate (Clobetasone butyrate) cream: Supply issue

Supply issue Active

There are supply issues for Eumovate cream affecting both the prescription pack (Pharmacode: 713945) and over-the-counter (OTC) pack (Pharmacode: 2401096).

1 May 2024 update

The supplier does not expect supply to return to normal until late March 2025. In the meantime, they are receiving small shipments of product.

Pharmacists will need to talk to their wholesalers about availability. People with a prescription for Eumovate may need to call their pharmacy to check if it is available.  

Affected products

This product is partially subsidised. 

  • Chemical: Clobetasone butyrate
  • Presentation: Crm 0.05%
  • Brand: Eumovate
  • Pharmacode: 713945 
  • Pharmacode: 2401096
  • Subsidy: $5.38 ($10.00)
  • Measure / Qty: per 30 g OP

Schedule listing for Eumovate(external link)

Expected resupply

The supplier expects to supply will be constrained until late March 2025. 

Alternatives

Where appropriate, we ask clinicians to consider moving people to hydrocortisone or another mid-strength steroid (such as, triamcinolone or hydrocortisone butyrate).

Topical plain corticosteroids listed in the Schedule(external link)

Topical corticosterioids in the NZ Formulary(external link)

This will preserve the supply of Eumovate cream for those who cannot use other products.

We continue to review alternatives to ensure people can access suitable treatment.

If you use Eumovate cream

If you cannot access Eumovate cream, you will need to talk to your health care professional about the best alternative for you. 

Pharmac cannot give advice on anyone's individual clinical circumstances. 

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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