Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT) e.g. Creon and Nutrizym - Shortage Information and Local Actions: Advice for patients
Why is this guidance needed?
In the UK, there is currently (December 2024) a shortage of a type of medicine called pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) e.g. Creon and Nutrizym.
We understand the anxiety the current supply issues are causing and are working to help everyone who needs PERT e.g. Creon and Nutrizym, to get the medication(s) they need.
Some people need PERT to help them digest food properly.
PERT is important for people whose pancreas, an organ in the body, doesn't make enough enzymes. Enzymes help the body break down food so it can be used for energy.
The shortage of PERT has happened because there have been problems manufacturing it, and it’s been hard to get the ingredients needed to produce it. To address the recent medication shortage, the NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board, in collaboration with its hospital trusts, GP practices and pharmacies, have implemented a plan to ensure patients continue receiving this necessary medication. It is predicted that the supply of some PERT medicines will not return to full availability until 2026.
What should I do if I am having problems getting my PERT prescription?
- Place your prescription request as soon as possible, ideally at least three weeks earlier than usual to give your community pharmacy time to obtain stock of your medication.
- Your GP should provide your PERT prescription on a separate prescription form to any other medication you may usually have – this allows you to take the prescription token to different pharmacies who may have available stock.
- Some community pharmacies have online stock checking services, which may be helpful. Call ahead to confirm stock before making a special visit to a pharmacy.
- If your usual pharmacy does not have your PERT, please try other community pharmacies. Because of the wide shortages you may have to try at least five different community pharmacies to find stock. It is worth trying pharmacies from different pharmacy chains, small multiples and independent pharmacies because different pharmacies can have different suppliers.
- The two main suppliers of PERT in the UK have set up customer support lines to help identify areas with recent deliveries. However, please be aware it is possible these deliveries may have already been allocated to specific patients.
- Viatris (Creon®) 0800 8086410 (for patients and pharmacists)
- Zentiva (Nutrizym®): 08448 793188 (for pharmacists) and 08000 902408 (for patients)
- Let your GP know if you are not able to get a prescription filled after trying at least five community pharmacies and where you have less than 10 days’ supply of PERT remaining.
- If you have less than 10 days’ supply of PERT remaining your GP may prescribe a different product which is equivalent to your usual PERT. For example, if you are currently prescribed Creon®, you may be prescribed a product called Pangrol® which will work in the same way and your community pharmacy will be able to order it from Oxford Pharmacy Store.
Other important points
- To help the enzymes work best remember to take your PERT throughout your meals rather than all at the start, middle or end.
- Don’t stockpile medications – this makes supply issues worse for everyone. GPs have been advised by the Department of Health to issue prescriptions for one month’s supply of PERT at a time.
- Do not borrow or share medication with other patients or buy medication on the internet.
Where to get further information
There are specialist support lines available where you can speak to nurses for advice and guidance through organisations like Pancreatic Cancer UK or the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.
This resource may be helpful if you are an adult having trouble accessing PERT. It provides advice to minimise the impact on your symptoms and quality of life should you be unable to access your normal supply of PERT. This resource is not suitable for children or those with cystic fibrosis.
Key messages:
If you are a patient affected by this shortage who has not been able to get your PERT medicine or a suitable alternative:
- Contact your GP: Ask your GP for a separate prescription for PERT, without any other medications included on it. This can make it easier to get PERT from different pharmacies if your usual one is out of stock.
- Check other pharmacies: If your regular pharmacy doesn’t have your usual brand, you may be able to source your brand from a different pharmacy.
- Plan ahead: Submit your prescription requests at least three weeks earlier than usual to give your pharmacy more time to obtain the medication.
- Specialist support lines: You can also contact specialist nurses through support lines provided by organisations like Pancreatic Cancer UK for additional guidance. Patients should try these support lines before they contact their local hospital.