Pharmac: Global Supply Issue affecting Dulaglutide (branded as Trulicity) Pharmac has been made aware of a global supply issue affecting dulaglutide (branded as Trulicity), which may mean Aotearoa experiences constrained supply until mid-2023. Our team is talking with the supplier, Eli Lilly, about the implications of this issue and how we can work together to find a solution. Dulaglutide (Trulicity) is a medication used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It also reduces the risk of heart attack or stroke in people with type 2 diabetes. We have sought clinical advice from our Diabetes Advisory Committee, which said that stock should be prioritised for those already using this medicine, along with having alternative diabetes treatments available.
Actions for healthcare professionals •
While we work to find a solution, to safeguard stock for people currently using dulaglutide, we are asking health professionals to strongly consider not starting new people on this medicine.
We appreciate it is frustrating when there are supply issues with medicines. Empagliflozin (with or without metformin) is the primary funded alternative treatment that both lowers blood glucose and reduces the risks of heart attack and stroke in people with type 2 diabetes. We have been advised there is plenty of stock of empagliflozin (with or without metformin) to meet an increase in demand. Head to our website for more information on other alternative-funded treatments for lowering blood glucose.
We want to hear from you As a key stakeholder, we would like to meet with you to discuss the supply issue and what we are doing to minimise the impact on the people affected. We have planned two hui: 1. Wednesday 5 October: 9:30 -10:30 am – Zoom meeting, Passcode: 077883 2. Thursday 6 October: 1:00-2:00 pm – Zoom meeting, Passcode: 518755 For a calendar invitation, please contact Isobel Weeks, email Isobel.weeks@pharmac.govt.nz