Gentamicin sulphate (Pfizer) Inj 40 mg per ml, 2 ml ampoule: Supply issue
Pfizer is expecting a supply issue with the gentamicin inj 40 mg per ml, 2 ml ampoules (Pharmacodes 771740 and 2498588)
26 September 2024 | Update
An alternative brand of gentamicin has been listed. However it cannot be nebulised, because it contains sodium metabisulphite. Pfizer is working to find preservative-free alternative.
We ask that the Pfizer brand is reserved for people who need nebulised gentamicin.
About the issue
Pfizer has regulatory changes planned for late 2024 which will lead to an out of stock of their brand of gentamicin from November 2024.
Pfizer has advised its current supply of gentamicin inj 40 mg per ml 2 ml amps is currently short dated with August 2024 expiry, an additional shipment is due at the end of July which will also be short dated (expiry November 2024).
| Presentation | Brand | Pharmacode | Subsidy | Measure / Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inj 40 mg per ml, 2 ml ampoule | Pfizer | 771740 | $18.38 | per 10 |
This issue does not affect other presentations of gentamicin.
Schedule listing for gentamicin(external link)
HML listing for gentamicin(external link)
Alternative products
We have listed an alternate brand from 1 October 2024 to support this supply issue.
- Brand: Gentamicin Noridem
- Pharmacode: 2687429
- Subsidy: $91.90
- Measure / Qty: per 50
- Section 29 and wastage is claimable
We understand that this brand is not suitable for use with a nebuliser, due to the presence of sodium metabisulphite. We ask that stock of the Pfizer product is reserved for people who need it nebulised.
We are working with Pfizer on sourcing a preservative-free alternative.
Who to contact
You can email Pharmac on enquiry@pharmac.govt.nz