Shortage of Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT)
There is currently a national shortage of Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT) as described below:
- Creon® 10,000 and 25,000 capsules are in limited supply until 2026.
- Nutrizym® 22 capsules are out of stock until mid-August 2024.
- Pancrex V® capsules and powder remain available but are unable to support an increase in
Please see full guidance in the attached National Patient Safety Alert dated 24th May 2024.
There is also advice on the CPE website here.
Wherever possible a licenced product should be supplied but where this is not possible some unlicenced options may be available.
The following specialist importers have indicated that they can source unlicensed PERT preparations as per the SPS website:
- Mawdsleys (Creon®)
- Smartway (Creon®)
- Target Healthcare (Creon® , PANCREAZE® Delayed-Release Capsules, Viokace® TabletsZenpep® Delayed-Release Capsules)
- Chemys Limited
These may also be available:
- (Alium (PANCREAZE® Delayed-Release Capsules)) (LPC has information around ordering process which can share if required)
- (Durbin (Zenpep® Delayed-Release Capsules))
Serious Shortage Protocols have been issued for both strengths of Creon® which limit the quantity pharmacies may dispense to one month’s supply.
Prescribers and pharmacy teams are also reminded that where products are available in higher strengths to please use these for adult patients, allowing Creon® 10,000 to be prescribed for paediatric patients and those unable to swallow larger capsules. Products such as Creon® Micro allow smaller doses needed by babies and very young children to be prepared and should be prioritised for these patients where other products suitable for adults are available. Please seek advice on supply and alternatives for paediatric patients from their usual specialist.
You can find the current PERT advice from Coventry and Warwickshire ICB dated June 2024 here. Please note this document is subject to updates as the situation evolves.
Image credit: Freepik
