Shortage of interferon

[VTAR24]

Hi on interferon since March this year seem to be tolerating it ok now ther is a shortage of it and pharmacist has trouble getting in I am really worried about this as what is the alternative does anyone have any advice into my hematologist next week tks

[MPort]

See post below "Switching from Pegasus to Besremi." Many of us are concerned. We are waiting anxiously.

[AndyT]

Some of us have adjusted our dosage to minimise wastage and make best use of the reduced supply of Pegasys that is still available.

In my case that means moving from 45mcg (half of a 90mcg syringe) every four weeks to using the full 90mcg every eight weeks. I’m not happy about the extended interval but if it means I can stay on Pegasys until the shortage is resolved I’m prepared to try it, as I’ve been on Pegasys for nine years and it works very well for me.

Of course that only works if you can still access some Pegasys - I was lucky to get three syringes just before the shortage got really bad. If your hospital can’t get any maybe try other/larger hospitals to see if they can help.

There is a push to get Besremi authorised as a temporary replacement but that’s not easy due to the much higher cost. Ask your doctor to see if that could be an option for you depending on the situation in Ireland, if that’s where you live.

Hope you find a solution soon.

[Mrs_Average]

I agree with AndyT. I have also had dosage and intervals adjusted to eliminate wastage, and the hematology team will monitor the impact on counts and side effects with me.

Good luck with your conversations