Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 March 2023
239. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Health if he will outline what contingency plans are in place to ensure the continuous supply of Ozempic, a medicine for diabetes patients; what measures are in place to distribute the existing stocks of Ozempic to pharmacies and patients who are prescribed this medicine for medical diabetes grounds as opposed to other uses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13992/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraShortages of the diabetes medicine Ozempic are linked to the increased demand which has been attributed to the off-label use of the product to treat obesity. Novo Nordisk, the marketing authorisation holder for Ozempic, has notified the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) of intermittent supply issues with Ozempic products due to increased global demand. The company anticipates that intermittent supply will continue into 2023.
Novo Nordisk has implemented monthly allocations to help ensure continuity of supply and equitable distribution of Ozempic stock to Irish patients. The company has issued letters to relevant stakeholders, including healthcare professionals to ensure they are aware of this supply issue and its management.
Information relating to medicines shortages, including particular information relating to Ozempic, can be found on the HPRA's website (Medicines Shortages (hpra.ie). Information on shortages is dynamic and changes depending on the current information the HPRA has to hand, including removal from the list when a shortage has been resolved.
