Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) report calls on the Government to create a national strategy to manage medication shortages
Epilepsy Society welcomes the report from RPS, Medicines Shortages: solutions for empty shelves which calls on the Government to create a national strategy to manage medication shortages.
The report is asking the Government to create a national strategy to both prevent and manage medicine shortages – one that would streamline efforts across the NHS, reduce inefficiencies caused by duplication of effort and ensure information and guidance for professionals and patients is available as soon as shortages occur.
We know from our recent survey that 70% of people with epilepsy have struggled to get their medication, and a third reported seizures induced by having to switch or skip medication. These shortages have made it harder for patients to access treatment, causing frustration, anxiety and in some cases, harm to patient health.
Clare Pelham, Chief Executive at the Epilepsy Society said: " Many people with epilepsy cannot switch between different versions of their medication, so there is no plan B when there is a shortage.
The RPS is rightly calling for a national strategy that will incentivise global manufacturers to ensure the UK is an attractive place to supply medications so that patients don't have to worry. Pharmacists and GPs are great allies for people with epilepsy. But when the pharmacy shelves are empty and there are no GP appointments, the lived experience of medication shortages is very frightening.
There is no disputing the fact that medication shortages are global and complex. But for anyone with epilepsy, the impact of shortages is simple and local. Without a constant supply of their life-saving medication from their local pharmacy, they are likely to face a breakthrough seizure which will mean they can't drive, can't work and can't support their families.
Who knew that in the 21st Century life-saving medication would be beyond the reach of ordinary working people with epilepsy.”