PEGASYS' SHORTAGE LOOKING MORE LIKELY...

[MPN-MATE Admin]

Morning everyone...

Naturally, I do not like to be the bearer of this possibility. However, the more I've looked into this problem, the more likely it now seems inevitable to some extent(?)

As I suggested I would, I managed to contact Nathalie Cooke regarding whether or not there was any move planned to try to have the Therapeutic Goods Association (TGA) and the PBS, look at approving an alternate like "Besremi" to shore up the imminent shortage of Pegasys' Interferon due March 2025...

As most of you will already be aware, it was Nathalie who managed the monumental task to have Pegasys' brought on board the PBS here in Australia.
Hence, discussing this possibility w/ Nathalie seemed logical, as having prefviously successfully navigated the obstacle course of 'Red-Tape', which would not be much fun I am sure...

Unfortunately, there is nothing planned at this junction!

In the UK, the MPN-Voice reported through Maz, that the NHS has recently adopted funding for Besremi. Apparently, the problem once again comes down to $$$

After speaking with Nathalie, I also managed to speak to Australia's possibly premiere MPN specialist, in Dr Cecily Forsyth, (especially where the use of Pegasys' Interferons are concerned).

The funding required for Besremi is apparently on par w/ that of Ruxolitinib in value, and once again the problem of "economic scale" rears it's ugly head. In a nutshell, there just is not enough of a need, (not enough MPN blood cancer patients here in Australia), requiring Besremi, in my view...

What does this mean to those who are currently taking Pegasys?

It may mean that an approval might be sought, or that the patient will have to take on the burden of responsibility for reusing a Pegasys' syringe(?)

Alternatively, they might have to become re-approved to switch back to Hydroxyureacarbimide (HU). Some might require moving over to Ruxolitinib, but again that too will first require meeting the required parameters for a an MPN patient to be able to successfully do so...

I wish I had better news than this to share on the subject of Pegasys' because the drug seems to be alleviating a great many problems for many who are currently including taking it in their Med's regime etc.

Naturally, should I learn more, I will update this message upon doing so...

Stay happy, healthy & safe.

Best wishes

Steve
MPN-MATE RF Admin

[Kinsale]

Thanks Steve for getting this info. I was under the impression that the Pegasys shortage will ease mid to late 2025. Fingers (and everything else) is crossed that that is still the case.

[MPN-MATE Admin]

Hey Mark...

Well, we can hope I guess... However, I am sorry to report that it seems it may arise somewhat sooner, and those alternatives I've mentioned above may become in vogue... If you follow my drift... ?

Not wanting to create any anxiety for others... However, my understanding is that "Besremi" being provided here as a "Peg'" substitute is highly unlikely. Hence, the reusing of syringes, and seeking other alternate Med's might also form part of this shortage equation, if indeed it does transpire...?

The transition from Roche to the new Taiwanese producer might take some time to have global supplies back up to speed etc. That was why the NHS in the UK have also opted to provide "Besremi"... Unfortunately our Australian population is somewhat smaller, hence the 'economy of scale' issue I mentioned earlier may prevail etc.

Wish it was better news Mark...

On the flip side... Cecily has agreed to join us for our January Cafe Catchup... I'll make that Post up very shortly too...

Stay happy & healthy Mark...

Steve