Warning to millions amid shortage of life-saving drugs across UK
STATINS shortages could have a “serious impact”, pharmacists warn.
Millions of Brits take the life-saving medication to lower their levels of cholesterol.
Community Pharmacy England said pharmacists are being hit by a scarcity of atorvastatin, a type of statin sold under the brand name Lipitor.
Pharmacists are “desperately trying to get hold of limited stock and having to pay inflated prices for it”, CPE said.
A CPE spokesperson said: “A number of pharmacy owners have got in touch with us about the pricing and availability of atorvastatin tablets.
“In discussions with the Department of Health and Social Care this week we have warned about the serious impact this issue is now having on pharmacies.”
Around 8million Brits take statins to treat high cholesterol, according to the British Heart Foundation.
The condition can cause build-ups of fatty plaques in blood vessels, resulting in blockages that increase your risk of deadly heart attack or stroke.
Atorvastatin is a type of statin that is available on prescription and comes as tablets, including chewable tablets for people who have difficulty swallowing.
It is usually taken once a day and can cause cholesterol levels to drop within four weeks.
Five serious shortage protocols have been issued for the drug by DHSC in the past two years.
The most recent expired in May this year.
Pharmacists say the ongoing problems require immediate attention, with shortages seeing some outlets being unable to supply as many as 100 patients a day.
Leyla Hannbeck, of the Association of Independent Multiple Pharmacies, told the Pharmaceutical Journal said prices have risen as much as ten-fold.
She said: “These prices for atorvastatin have jumped from 49p through to £5.30 [per pack] within less than six weeks, hammering contractors’ cash flow.
“I have appealed for this situation to be resolved once and for all, asking the DHSC to bring all stakeholders around a table to discuss the issues and find solutions.”
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: “We are aware of supply constraints affecting atorvastatin 20mg tablets.
“Deliveries are continuing to be made and we are closely monitoring the situation.
“We are working with wholesalers and all suppliers of atorvastatin tablets to understand what steps can be taken to improve the situation.
“Alternative statins remain available.”