Accessing pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) medicines
You may be aware that the UK is currently experiencing a shortage of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) medicines. Please see the recent National Patient Safety Alert.
This has resulted in some patients across the country having trouble getting their prescription.
Although the UK is supplies of these medications, and most patients will still be able to get the medicine they need, we need to work together to ensure that we maintain a good supply of PERT medicines in north east London.
Attached is a guidance note for prescribers with advice on how to support your patients to access these medicines, and alternative brands of PERT or treatments where needed.
We are also working closely with a regional procurement centre to import PERT from other countries, which will increase the availability of PERT to community pharmacies in north east London.
If you are contacted by any patients who are having trouble accessing their medicines, please do let us know. You can find information on our website here with advice on what patients can do if they are running short of supply and where to get support.
Download – Guidance notes on managing PERT shortages: