Drug Availability Update

Further to DrugAlert Volume 401, HPS Pharmacies wish to give notice that Aspen Pharmacare Australia Pty Ltd is continuing to experience a supply interruption for the following local anaesthetic products:

This supply interruption is due to a fire at the manufacturing site. No other local anaesthetic products manufactured by AstraZeneca on behalf of Aspen are currently affected by this issue.

Aspen advises that the following substitutions could be considered during this supply interruption:

• Marcain 0.25% 5 x 20mL – one 10mL Marcain 0.5% non-sterile theatre packed polyamp can be diluted with 10mL saline to obtain 20mL Marcain 0.25%.
• Marcain 0.5% 5 x 10mL – one 10mL Marcain 0.5% non-sterile theatre packed polyamp can be considered as an indirect substitute.
• Xylocaine 2% 5 x 20mL – four 5mL Xylocaine 2% 50 x 5mL polyamps (non-sterile theatre packed) can be considered as an indirect substitute.

The product information should be consulted for further information on the appropriate use of these agents. In order to avoid medication errors, it is also requested that all staff exercise additional diligence when prescribing, supplying, and administering these products during this supply interruption.

Retain this notice in a prominent position, including in other related business units until supplies return to normal. Report any problems identified with medicines, vaccines or medical devices to the TGA.

Should you require further information regarding this matter, please contact your pharmacist at HPS Pharmacies, or Aspen Pharmacare Australia on 1300 659 646.