AUSTRALIA is facing a shortage of a range of popular oral contraceptive pills next month due to a manufacturing issue.
A Therapeutic Goods Administration spokeswoman said patients affected by the shortages should speak with their health professional.
“The TGA has been notified of an anticipated shortage of the contraceptive pills Triquilar ED, Monofeme, and Levlen ED, and a current shortage of Micronelle 20 ED and Minulet due to manufacturing issues,” she said.
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READ NOW“A number of other contraceptive pills remain available.
“Patients who are affected by these shortages are encouraged to speak with their health professional about the possibility of substituting with other brands.”
The spokeswoman said from January 1, 2019 medicine sponsors are required to report shortages of all prescription and some non-prescription medicines to the TGA.
“Early identification of shortages will enable medicine sponsors, health professionals and the TGA to take timely action to minimise the impact on Australian consumers,” she said.
A Pharmacy Guild spokesman said various brands of oral contraceptive pill were in short supply from time to time.
“In most cases, alternative generic versions are available to be substituted,” he said.
“Patients should speak with their pharmacist if they have any questions or concerns about the availability of their oral contraceptive pill.”