New Zealand’s supply of anti-anxiety medication lorazepam is only two weeks away as supplies are being limited due to supply chain issues.
On Friday, Pharmac announced that: supply of 1mg lorazepam tabletswhich was generally used on a short-term basis to manage moderate to severe anxiety and sleep problems (branded as Ativan), was disrupted due to “logistics challenges” and won’t be stocked until early to mid-August.
“This means the shortage will affect those who need a prescription to be delivered within the next two to four weeks,” said Lisa Williams, Pharmac’s director of operations.
Under Pharmac’s contract with the supplier, Aspen, the drug it supplies to New Zealand must be stocked for at least two months. Pharmac will investigate why this obligation has not been met.
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There is no direct chemical alternative available for the drug, but Pharmac has made every effort “to ensure that the remaining stock is distributed as fairly as possible”.
On Thursday, the drug-purchasing agency advised pharmacies to provide patients with only a week’s supply of the 1 mg dose, to ensure “equitable distribution” among patients.
This rule would apply until August 31.
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No direct chemical replacement is available for 1 mg of lorazepam and the supply is not expected to be resolved until mid-August.
Lorazepam is a benzodiazepineand should only be prescribed for short periods: about two to four weeks at a time.
Pharmac’s expert clinical advisors have reinforced the importance of continuity of supply for this ‘important’ drug.
There are doses of 0.5 mg and 2.5 mg of the medicine available in New Zealand.
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Some clinicians may consider switching patients to half a 2.5 mg tablet – which has a score line to make the halving easier – although clinical judgment is needed as this would increase a person’s dose from 1 mg to 1.25mg.
This would require a new prescription, Williams said.
“We know that supply disruptions can be distressing for people,” she said.
Pharmacy worked on securing an alternative supply of the 1 mg lorazepam. The clinical advisors said there were “alternative” treatments, but switching people from lorazepam to something else would require a doctor’s involvement.
“People will need to talk to their GP, who can advise them on the best possible option for them.”
“We know this isn’t ideal with an already stretched health system, but it’s important that we let clinicians, pharmacists and the public know about delivery issues as soon as possible,” Williams said.