Interferon shortage?

[Jimango]

Hi

I'm Jimango. Have been monitoring this forum for a few years but never needed to post, although I have replied to a few.

I'm ET, Jak2 neg, since 2007. HU intolerant, anagralide ineffective on it's own, but very effective in combination with Interferon alpha 2a (roferon). Have just been told that the hospital pharmacy cannot get roferon from its suppliers any more. Next step, presumably, is to ask Haemo to prescribe something else (pegasys?), but am trying to avoid the hassle and possible non-availability of more drugs (have been settled on this combination for 8 years now).

Has anyone experienced this problem, and does anyone know whether this roferon shortage is nationwide or just local to NE England and Lloyd's Pharmacy in particular?

Thanks, Mike

[swimswam]

Hi Mike, Your post has worried me as I was moved from Intron to Roferon a few months ago as I was told Intron was no longer available. Although Interferon works well for me I have been told I cannot have Pegasys as having ET Jak2 + doesn’t qualify me according to NICE recommendations, my only chance of being on Interferon now is Roferon!

[wormwood]

Hi... I had an appointment 2 weeks ago and was told I have to change from interferon alpha( roferon) due to shortages, apparently they're not making it anymore due to more effective treatments e.g pegasys... so I've only got enough until September then I have to change.... I'm worried too....

[Malaika]

Hi Mike I too am worried about this possible development. I was also moved from Intron to Roferon A. I have asked for Pegasys on numerous occasions to be told no. I took Hu for many many years but even at 1500 a day my platelets continued to rise. I also cannot take Anagrelide it put me in bed. The hem suggested Bulsaphan but I refused. So not sure what options I will have if they discontinue this. Sorry if I have spelt any medication wrong spell check doesn't work on these.

Wishing you the very best

Malaika