Pill shortage concerns

‘‘The supply issues have the potential to pose an impact on the wellbeing for some women caught up in this situation,’’ Tolich said.

‘‘Of significant concern is that less than two months ago we were told by Pharmac that the supply issue was not Covid-related and that supply was expected midApril. Why are we learning there is an issue now, over a month later?’’

Pharmac operations director Lisa Williams said there were now shortages of two contraceptives in New Zealand – Microlut and Norimin.

The shortage of Microlut was caused by a significant surge in demand during February and March, while the Norimin shortage was because of a manufacturing issue, which had been going on for some time and had affected supply globally, Williams said.

Pharmac had funded two alternative products – Necon and Microlut SCT – in the meantime, Williams said. However, neither was approved by Medsafe, so both must be prescribed in accordance with the Medicines Act.

‘‘Patients, in discussion with their prescriber, may also choose an alternative registered product. We acknowledge this is inconvenient for patients and are working with the suppliers of Microlut and Norimin to restore continuity of supply as quickly as possible.’’

Dispensing limits have been placed on oral contraceptives.

Pharmac would continue to update its website with information as the situation evolved.

‘‘There was none available . . . The pharmacy weren’t being [difficult], they just said ‘we can’t get any’.’’

Hansi Bennett