Drug Discontinuation

HPS Pharmacies wish to give notice that Mundipharma has discontinued MS Contin^® Suspension (modified-release granules) as follows:

MS Contin^® Suspension
Morphine Sulfate Pentahydrate 20mg
ARTG 45838

MS Contin^® Suspension
Morphine Sulfate Pentahydrate 30mg
ARTG 45841

MS Contin^® Suspension
Morphine Sulfate Pentahydrate 60mg
ARTG 65397

MS Contin^® Suspension
Morphine Sulfate Pentahydrate 100mg
ARTG 65398

MS Contin^® Suspension
Morphine Sulfate Pentahydrate 200mg
ARTG 65399

This discontinuation is due to difficulties in sourcing specific components of the formulation. Mundipharma anticipates that some strengths will be unavailable in March 2021, with all strengths likely to run out of stock by the end of 2021.

Mundipharma advises that the following options may be considered for patients with swallowing difficulties who require a strong analgesic:

• MS Mono^® (24-hour modified-release morphine sulphate) capsules. The capsule contents may be sprinkled into liquid or onto soft food, or administered through a 16 or 20 French gastrostomy tube;
• Use of a medication lubricant, such as Gloup^®, to aid swallowing;
• Switching the patient to an immediate-release liquid, e.g. Ordine^® oral solution (morphine hydrochloride trihydrate); or
• Switching the patient to a transdermal opioid preparation.

The relevant product information should be reviewed for further details. Retain this notice in a prominent position, including in other related business units for one month. Report any problems identified with medicines, vaccines or medical devices to the TGA.

Should you require further information regarding this matter, please contact Mundipharma on 1800 188 009 or your pharmacist at HPS Pharmacies.