Medicine shortage alert – oral contraceptive pills

Pharma News: Health professionals are advised that there is a shortage of Pfizer’s oral contraceptive pills Brevinor and Norimin (combination of ethinylestradiol and norethisterone).

Pfizer has advised the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) the shortage of these products is due to manufacturing issues and is expected to continue until mid-October 2020 and early December 2020, depending on the product.

A spokesperson for Pfizer said “Due to a manufacturing delay there is a current shortage of some Pfizer oral contraceptives, including Norimin and Brevinor (Norethisterone+Ethinylestradiol). We are focused on providing a consistent supply of these contraceptives for patients, and are committed to actively resolving this matter.

Pfizer Australia is advising HCPs and pharmacists that normal supply for Pfizer’s oral contraceptives is expected in December 2020. Pfizer Australia advises patients who need to replenish their supply to discuss alternative contraception options with their doctor.”

The affected products are:

• Brevinor – norethisterone 0.5 mg and ethinylestradiol 35 micrograms
• Norimin – norethisterone 0.5 mg and ethinylestradiol 35 micrograms
• Brevinor-1 – norethisterone 1 mg and ethinylestradiol 35 micrograms
• Norimin-1 – norethisterone 1 mg and ethinylestradiol 35 micrograms.

There are currently no exact alternatives for these products. If patients have been prescribed Brevinor, Brevinor-1, Norimin or Norimin-1, HCPs may wish to consider an alternative combined oral contraceptive pill or methods of contraception.