Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) treatment shortage: Advice for you

Webpage last updated on: 30th October 2024

Which MPN treatment is affected by the shortage?

This shortage affects the treatment interferon alpha. In particular, the brand Pegasys, also know as pegylated interferon alpha 2a, is being affected by this issue. In response to a temporary worldwide shortage of Pegasys (a pegylated interferon alfa treatment), which is used by over 2,000 people with a myeloproliferative neoplasm – Leukaemia Care, Blood Cancer UK, and MPN Voice together wrote to NHS England proposing for a temporary solution. We’re pleased that NHS England has, through an urgent interim policy, now confirmed that another treatment, Besremi, can now be used in England in line with the policy until the shortage is over.

This guidance is from NHS England, but Besremi may also be available in certain situations in Scotland and Wales.

If you are having problems accessing Pegasys or Besremi in Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales, please speak to your hospital team.

What’s causing the shortage?

A potential shortage has been known for a while, as a company that used to produce the treatment is no longer doing so. It has only just become clear what the scale of the shortage is and what needs to be done to prevent issues for patients. This is why we have decided to share the advice of expert clinicians so anyone who is affected can be prepared.

What impact will the shortage have on my current treatment?

The shortage may not impact on you. The supply of the treatment is patchy and may be better in some areas than others.The advice that is being given to hospitals from experts is alter dosages so that a whole syringe of treatment is used every time. Whereas some people may be only using half a syringe a week for example, they may be asked to use a whole syringe every two weeks instead. Do NOT change your treatment dosage or make any other changes unless you are told to by your hospital team specifically. Do NOT reuse syringes of interferon.

Should I stop treatment?

Do NOT change your treatment dosage or make any other changes unless you are told to by your hospital team specifically.

What is being done to resolve the shortage?

The NHs has well established processes to deal with medicines shortages. Leukaemia Care are working closely with other charities and expert doctors to ask that the NHS implement these processes, such as considering alternatives. We will update you when we have more information.