Interferon supplies for people with MPNs – update 04 Sep 24
Pegylated interferon alfa 2a (Pegasys) is currently in short supply in the UK and worldwide. This is because the licence to make the drug has passed from one pharmaceutical company to another, and there are delays while the new company sets up its manufacturing processes.
The shortage is temporary – we expect stocks to return to normal in about a year. In the meantime, we have joined with charities Blood Cancer UK and Leukaemia Care to press for a solution in the UK.
What we are doing:
We are writing a joint letter to the NHS in each of the four UK nations to request approval for another version of interferon alfa called Besremi. There is strong evidence that Besremi works as well as Pegasys for people with MPNs.
We want people who are currently taking Pegasys to be able to switch to Besremi. We are also asking for newly diagnosed people to be able to take Besremi if interferon is the best option for them.
If it is approved, using Besremi would be a temporary solution – people would go back to using Pegasys once it is available as normal.
We will keep you updated with our progress.
In the meantime, MPN experts are writing advice for treating teams across the UK to help manage the shortage.
What you can do:
- If you are worried, speak to your hospital team. You don’t have to wait for your next appointment.
- Your team may suggest some adjustments to your Pegasys dose to avoid waste. Be prepared for this, but ask questions if you are concerned.
- Don’t change your dose of interferon without speaking to your hospital team. If you typically use less than a whole syringe of Pegasys, don’t reuse what’s left – it is not safe.
- If you have any problems getting your Pegasys prescription, please let us know by email at advocacy@mpnvoice.org.uk, so we can monitor the situation around the UK.
