Apidra supply interruption
The manufacturer of Insulin Glulisine (Apidra®) has written to healthcare professionals warning of a supply interruption that will affect several presentations in the Apidra range until the end of the year.
A technical issue on the production site is cited as the cause of this problem and the letter reassures that there are no concerns regarding the quality of this or any other insulin products supplied by the same manufacturer.
The supply status is as follows:
- Apidra SoloStar prefilled pens - limited supplies at wholesalers that are expected to be exhausted by the end of September 2011. Anticipated to back in stock in December 2011.
- Apidra Optiset prefilled pens - limited supplies at wholesalers that are expected to be exhausted by the end of September 2011. Unlikely to be back in stock before planned withdrawal of this product at the end of 2011.
- Apidra ClikStar cartridges - limited supplies at wholesalers that are expected to be exhausted by the end of September or early October 2011. Anticipated to back in stock in December 2011.
- Apidra OptiClik cartridges - unaffected and in stock with sufficient supply to last until the planned withdrawal of this product at the end of 2011.
- Apidra vials - unaffected and in stock.
More information regarding currently supply status is available from the manufacturer on customer services on 0800 854 430 (Monday to Thursday - 9am to 5:15pm, Friday - 9am to 4pm). Patient enquiries can be directed to the Insulin Support Line 0845 606 688 (open 24 hours).
The manufacturer has access to some stock that will be made available on a named patient basis when alternative products are unsuitable. Pharmacies can place orders by calling 01483 505 515.
Action: Clinicians should be aware of the imminent shortage. Patients currently using the affected products will need to be assessed individually. Some people may have sufficient stock at home to last until supply is resumed. Others may need alternative products, presentations or access to the reserved stocks.
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I take both Lantus and Apidra Solostar but Apidra is not available even after Dec 11 please do the needful and oblikge
Comment by P. K. GUPTA — March 8, 2012 #
[…] letter notes that the supply shortage that was announced in September 2011 was due to a technical incident at the manufacturing site. The current supply […]
Pingback by Apidra supply restored | Prescribing Advice for GPs — February 10, 2012 #
@Helen,
Your husband may need to discuss the options with the healthcare professional who helps him look after his diabetes.
Options are to switch to vials, change the insulin to another fast acting alternative or try to obtain the Adipra from another pharmacy or direct from the manufacturer.
Some of these options may not be possible or suitable for your husband though.
Comment by Matthew Robinson — September 16, 2011 #
Please can you advise on an alternative product to the Apidra Solostar. When I went to collect my husbands prescription I was told that supplies will not be available until December. My husband has type 11 diabetes and takes 24 hrs insulin Lantus and Apidra with every meal. His blood sugar levels are high at the moment and he should not have a break in his supplies.
Please can you advise
Mrs Jones
Comment by Helen Jones — September 16, 2011 #