Flecainide 100 mg capsule: Supply issue and access change

Affected products 

Due to a potential supply issue, we have changed the dispensing for this medicine to monthly. 

• Chemical: flecainide acetate
• Presentation: cap long-acting 100 mg
• Brand: Flecainide Controlled Release Teva
• Pharmacode: 2567113

Other strengths of flecainide capsules remain available as usual.

We hope to return to the standard: 'Three months supply may be dispensed at one time if endorsed "certified exemption" by the prescriber or pharmacist' by 1 November 2023. Indicated by the triangle symbol in the Schedule.

What does this mean for people taking flecainide?

If you have been receiving 3 months' supply of your flecainide 100 mg capsules, you will only be able to pick up one month's supply. You will need to return the following month for your next lot of capsules. You won't need a new prescription. 

We know it can be inconvenient to have to pick up your medicine more often. But, we've done this to make sure everyone can continue to receive their treatment.  

Monthly dispensing will be in place until at least from 1 November 2023. 

Who to contact

If you take flecainide, talk with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this supply issue.

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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Notice first published: 16 August 2023