Shortage of Parkinson's drug Sinemet

Updated 5 July 2010

You may be aware that there is a global shortage of the Parkinson's drug Sinemet due to a new supply process. It is now expected that full stock levels will not be available until some time in 2011.

Alternatives available

If you will be affected by this shortage, try not to worry. There are alternatives available.

Although the supply problem affects all strengths of Sinemet, in the majority of cases another generic drug can be taken in its place.

While the generic drug might look different, the active ingredient is the same and you will be able to continue with your established drug routine.

However, the stock of Sinemet CR 200/50 has now run out. We advise you to contact your GP or neurologist as soon as possible to discuss the alternatives that are available.

There's no need to panic but the sooner you find an alternative that works for you, the better.

Information for pharmacists and doctors

We've been informed by Sinemet manufacturers Merck, Sharp and Dohme (MSD) that they are sending letters to all pharmacies to explain the current situation and outline the alternatives that are available.

Merck has temporarily nominated Alliance Healthcare (Distribution) Limited as the sole distributor of the following products:

• Sinemet ® 62.5 Tablets
• Sinemet ® PLUS Tablets (generic versions available)
• Sinemet ® CR 200/50 mg Prolonged-Release Tablets (generic versions available)
• Half Sinemet ® CR 100/25mg Prolonged Release Tablets (generic versions available)

All orders for the above products should be placed with Alliance Healthcare (Distribution) Limited. Customers in Northern Ireland should order from Sangers Northern Ireland

Help us campaign to end Sinemet shortage

We need people affected by Parkinson’s to contact the Medical Director at Merck to demand that the shortage of Parkinson's drug Sinemet ends now.

Read more about our campaign to end Sinemet shortage and how to take action.

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