Temozolomide (Temaccord) 5 mg capsules: Supply issue

Supply issue Active

Douglas, the supplier, expects a brief out of stock of its temolozomide 5 mg capsules (Pharmacode 2388278)

Affected product

The next shipment of temolozomide 5 mg has been delayed until early October. Douglas estimates that it has stock available until mid-September. There will be a brief out of stock of this product.

Temozolomide

  • Presentation: Cap 5 mg
  • Brand: Temaccord
  • Pharmacode: 2388278
  • Subsidy: $9.13
  • Measure / Qty: per 5

Schedule listing for temolozomide(external link)

Other presentations of temozolomide are unaffected by this issue.

Alternative product

Douglas has found an alternative product and it will be listed in the Pharmaceutical Schedule from 1 September 2024. It is not Medsafe-registered and will need to be prescribed and dispensed in line with section 29 of the Medicines Act. 

Temozolomide

  • Presentation: Cap 5 mg
  • Brand: Temozolomide-Taro
  • Pharmacode: 2689413
  • Subsidy: $9.13
  • Measure / Qty: per 5
  • Notes: Section 29, wastage claimable, retail pharmacy

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

Douglas anticipates that the stock will arrive late September 2024.

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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