Update to the previous Drug Watch report on 20 September 2012 about Epanutin capsules.
In the UK Epanutin capsules are now called Phenytoin Sodium Flynn Hard Capsules.
The cost of Phenytoin Sodium Flynn Hard Capsules to the NHS is a lot more than when they were called Epanutin Capsules. This change in cost could lead to some family doctors (GPs) deciding to prescribe a different medicine to Phenytoin Sodium Flynn Hard Capsules.
Epilepsy Action strongly believes that people with epilepsy should receive the same version of their epilepsy medication whenever they get a repeat prescription. For some people a change in epilepsy medicine could cause more seizures, worsening seizure control or side-effects.
NICE is an independent organisation that provides guidelines for treatment and care for people using the NHS in England, Northern Ireland and Wales. The guidelines say that your GP and epilepsy specialist should agree all decisions about your healthcare and lifestyle with you. They also say that changing the brand or formulation of your epilepsy medicine is not recommended.
If you are having problems getting your prescription of Phenytoin Sodium Flynn Hard Capsules (formerly known as Epanutin Capsules) you can speak to your GP, epilepsy nurse or other health professional, and refer to the NICE guidelines. You can also:
- Speak to Flynn Pharma who have their own Helpline for anyone who has concerns or needs advice. Freephone: 0800 077 8566 (Mon – Fri 9am – 5pm).
- Or contact Epilepsy Action's Helplines
Freephone: 0808 800 5050
Email: helpline@epilepsy.org.uk
From 24 September 2012, Epanutin capsules will be marketed and distributed by Flynn Pharma. They will no longer be marketed and distributed by Pfizer.
The capsules will continue to be made by Pfizer in exactly the same way as they have always been. The capsules will have ‘Epanutin’ on them. However, Pfizer have not sold the name Epanutin, so Flynn Pharma cannot call them Epanutin, even though that is what they are.
The new boxes will say Phenytoin Sodium Flynn. If someone currently has Epanutin, they should ask their doctor to write Phenytoin Sodium Flynn hard capsules on the prescription. This will ensure they are still getting exactly the same drug.
These changes apply to Epanutin capsules only. There will be no change to the packaging for Epanutin chewable tablets or Epanutin suspension.
Flynn Pharma advise us that they have an even bigger distribution network than Pfizer. This means that pharmacies and patients should have no problem in getting hold of their capsules.
Because there will still be supplies of Epanutin in Pfizer packaging at pharmacies or wholesalers, patients may continue to get these while stocks last.
Flynn Pharma have their own Helpline for anyone who has concerns or needs advice. Freephone: 0800 077 8566 (Mon – Fri 9am – 5pm).