The government has said it is still aware of shortages affecting two epilepsy medications, but that “most issues” with medication supplies have been resolved.
In a reply to a written parliamentary question from Labour MP Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi on 9 September, health minister Zubir Ahmed said the government was aware of continued shortages of topiramate tablets of 25mg, 50mg, 100mg and 200mg, and phenobarbital tablets of 15mg.
He added: “Resupply from the affected manufacturers is yet to be confirmed but stock remains available from alternative manufacturers to meet patient demand, and we have issued management guidance to the National Health Service.”
The minister added: “The department is working hard with industry to help resolve intermittent supply issues with some epilepsy medications.
“As a result of ongoing activity and intensive work, including asking manufacturers to expedite deliveries, most issues have been resolved.”
Last year, a coalition of epilepsy and Parkinson’s charities wrote to political party leaders calling for an urgent review of the medicine supply chain.
The seriousness of the situation has been compounded by reports of the deaths of David Crompton and Charlie Marriage, both resulting from a lack of access to epilepsy medications.
Epilepsy Action is continuing to urge the government to carry out a “robust review of all the processes and procedures to ensure an open and transparent supply chain”.
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