Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
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564. To ask the Minister for Health to provide an update on the scarcity of (details supplied); the measures being taken to ensure GPs are able to prescribe alternative medication; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5598/24]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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Accord Healthcare Ireland Ltd, has advised of a shortage of Atomoxetine 100mg Hard Capsules, Atomoxetine Accord 10mg, 18mg, 25mg, 40mg, 60mg and 80mg Hard Capsules due to an unexpected increase in demand. Multiple countries, not just Ireland is impacted by this shortage. The company has advised that replenishment orders are due to be manufactured in February and they aim to have stock available in market late April/early May. The company has issued a letter to Healthcare professionals regarding this. ().

There have been a number of recent interruptions in the supply of medicines for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in 2023 and 2024. We recognise that medicine shortages can be challenging for patients, carers, healthcare professionals and their teams. Based on shortages notified to the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA), this matter has been the subject of engagement across Health Service stakeholders. Where at all possible, all parties are focused on pre-empting and responding to any potential impacts on medicines supply. Where a shortage cannot be prevented, we will aim to provide useful information to healthcare professionals and patients.

The HPRA maintains a list of current and resolved shortages on its website, where the details, including the information above, are detailed. The webpage is updated daily as new information is received. Additionally, the HPRA has published information to outline the current ADHD medication position and the ongoing coordinated response to minimise impact while supply of these medicines stabilises.

National stocks of all the medicines listed above are subject to close monitoring and assessment at wholesale level to monitor for any change in this position. The HSE National Clinical Programme for Mental Health is being kept informed of the current position and will engage directly with relevant specialists as required.

The current position is that there are medicines available across all active ingredients (atomoxetine, guanfacine, lisdexmetamphetamine or methylphenidate). For some products, while an individual strength may be in short supply, suitable alternatives should be available. In some cases, this may include medicines sourced from other markets via appropriately authorised wholesalers.

Where this shortage impacts ongoing treatment for a patient, prescribers and pharmacists, in conjunction with patients, should discuss with their Healthcare professional the most appropriate course of action, based on suitable alternative treatment options available.

Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
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565. To ask the Minister for Health what measures are being taken to provide up to date information to GPs of medication shortages and suitable alternatives, in order to prevent patients receiving prescriptions they are unable to fill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5599/24]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) is responsible for regulating medicines and medical products in Ireland. The HPRA operates the Medicines Shortage Framework on behalf of the Minister for Health. The Medicines Shortages Framework’s aim is to help avert potential shortages from occurring and to reduce the impact of shortages on patients by co-ordinating the management of potential or actual shortages as they arise. The multi-stakeholder framework includes representation from the Department of Health, the pharmaceutical industry, healthcare professionals, the HSE, and patients. In the case of medicines used most often in Ireland, there are typically multiple alternatives available from various sources that remain available to ensure continuity of treatment.

The HPRA publishes and maintains a list of current and resolved medicines shortages on its website available to the public and to healthcare professionals. Information is provided on preventing, managing, and reporting shortages. The webpage is updated daily as new information is received.