Isoniazid (PSM) Tab 100 mg: Supply issue

Affected product

• Chemical: Isoniazid
• Presentation: Tab 100 mg
• Brand: PSM
• Pharmacode: 267473
• Subsidy: $23.00
• Measure / Qty: per 100

Alternative product

To ensure people can continue to access treatment we listed an alternative product from 1 September. The alternative brand has arrived in Aotearoa New Zealand and is ready to be distributed once the PSM isoniazid runs out. Isoniazid Teva is not Medsafe approved and will need to be prescribed and dispensed in line with section 29 of the Medicine Act. As of 20 September 2024, the alternative is available.

• Chemical: Isoniazid
• Presentation: Tab 100 mg
• Brand: Isoniazid Teva
• Pharmacode: 2689294
• Subsidy: $94.50
• Measure / Qty: per 100
• Section 29 and wastage applies

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 patients to be able 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)

Expected resupply

The supplier expect the contracted product will be available in April 2025.

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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