As reported by Yahoo News, patients battling cancer are facing severe difficulties due to a dire lack of the essential medication Creon which over 60,000 UK patients rely on
The shortage has prompted some people to only eat once a day as they ration their supplies, according to warnings from pharmacists. Creon serves as a vital pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (Pert) that helps patients properly digest food and absorb its nutrients.
The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) said those suffering from pancreatic cancer, cystic fibrosis and chronic pancreatitis are affected by this shortage and some are travelling over 30 miles in desperate search of the medication.
Recent findings from an NPA survey of 300 pharmacies highlight a serious supply issue, with 96% reporting difficulties in stocking Creon and 89% also struggling to provide alternative Pert treatments.
Patients are bearing the brunt of these shortages, going without medication entirely, or travelling between multiple pharmacies in search of stock.
A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care said: “We know how frustrating and distressing medicine supply issues can be for patients and the clinicians caring for them. The European-wide supply issues with Creon are caused by a limited availability of raw ingredients and manufacturing capacity constraints. We are working closely with industry and the NHS to mitigate the impact on patients and resolve the issues as quickly as possible.”
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