Drug Availability

HPS Pharmacies wish to give notice that Bristol-Myers Squibb is experiencing a supply interruption for subcutaneous presentations of Orencia^® as follows:

Orencia^® ClickJect Autoinjector
Abatacept (rch) 125 mg
ARTG 236039

Orencia^® Syringe
Abatacept (rch) 125 mg
ARTG 206764

Normal supplies of Orencia^® syringes are expected to resume by end-February 2022, with supplies of Orencia^® autoinjectors expected to return by late March 2022.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has made a Serious Scarcity Substitution Instrument (SSSI) to help manage this situation. This instrument declares Orencia^® autoinjectors and syringes to be scarce. While both products currently have limited availability, abatacept syringes (Orencia^®) and abatacept autoinjector (Orencia ClickJect^®) can be interchangeably substituted under this SSSI if available.

The SSSI only relates to the subcutaneous presentations of Orencia^®. It will remain in force until 30 April 2022 (unless revoked earlier by the TGA if the scarcity is resolved or safety concerns are identified). Substitutions made under this SSSI will still be subsidised on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for eligible patients.

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 Bristol-Myers Squibb on 1800 067 567 or your pharmacist at HPS Pharmacies.