Prasugrel: Discontinued

Eli Lilly, the supplier of prasugrel tablets has stopped making this medicine. PHARMAC was unable to find another supplier.

About this discontinuation

About 65 people in New Zealand used prasugrel 5mg or 10mg tablets. Prasugrel is an antiplatelet medicine, which helps stop blood clots.

Prasugrel was delisted on 31 January 2021.

Information for people who take prasugrel

You will need to talk to your health care professional about an alternative to prasugrel. There are other treatment options available. Your health care professional knows you and will help you find the best alternative.

We know that changing medicines can be disruptive. We apologise for any inconvenience.  

Information for prescribers

Prescribers will need to:

  • ensure no new patients are started on prasugrel
  • transition patients currently on prasugrel to alternative treatments as soon as possible.

Ticagrelor is an appropriate alternative

PHARMAC received advice from the cardiovascular and haematology subcommittees of the Pharmacology and Therapeutics Advisory Committee (PTAC). These subcommitees are two of our expert clinical advisory groups.

The subcommittees advise that ticagrelor would be an appropriate alternative antiplatelet for these patients. Access to ticagrelor requires a Special Authority.

Access to ticagrelor

From 1 September 2020, the Special Authority criteria for ticagrelor was widened to enable existing prasugrel patients access. The Schedule was updated with a new SA form on 1 September.

Key dates for prescribers and pharmacists:

  • Before 1 September – Funded ticagrelor could be accessed for existing prasugrel patients via application to PHARMAC for a Special Authority waiver.
  • 1 September 2020 – Ticagrelor Special Authority criteria widened to ensure existing prasugrel patients are eligible for funded access to this alternative.
  • 30 October 2020 – Current stock of prasugrel expected to run out.
  • 31 January 2021 – Existing stock of prasugrel in New Zealand expired.
  • 31 January 2021 – Prasugrel delisted from the Pharmaceutical Schedule

Who to contact

If you have any questions about this discontinuation, contact PHARMAC on: