Changes to medicine availability
July 6th, 2020
Gemfibrozil: supply to New Zealand ending
Gemfibrozil (Lipazil) is not going to be available in New Zealand from the end of this month. There are other funded treatments that can lower cholesterol. When you are due for a repeat of your medicines please book in to see your GP to discuss changing to a different medicine that may be best for you.
PHARMAC can reimburse your GP for the cost of your visit to get a replacement for gemfibrozil. Ask your GP about this when you see them.
Tilade and Intal Forte inhalers discontinued
Two inhalers, nedocromil (Tilade) and sodium cromoglicate (Intal Forte) are being discontinued in New Zealand over the course of the year.
Before you run out of your inhalers you will need to talk to your prescriber about other medicines to help you control your asthma/breathing.
There are no other funded nedocromil or sodium cromoglicate inhalers. However there are a number of other funded preventer inhalers you could switch to. Your prescriber can advise you on what treatments will work best for you.