22 May 2020
Megs
Via Email:
[FYI request #12688 email]
Dear Megs
REQUEST FOR INFORMATION: DISCONTINUATION OF PHENELZINE SULPHATE
Thank you for your email of 23 April 2020 requesting information about the discontinuation of
phenelzine sulphate. Specifically, you have asked for:
…all information and documentation, including email or other correspondence documents with
both internal and external parties, for the following:
•
What other alternative suppliers have been contacted or considered, what was the
outcome?
•
Is the discontinuation of phenelzine related to the current cost of alternatives?
•
Has phenelzine been permanently discontinued in NZ? Or will it be available when the
supply has stabilised?
•
Any estimations around the suicide risk (and management) of these 100 New
Zealanders (who are currently using phenelzine sulphate), the potential cost to the
health and welfare system given the extremely high likelihood of relapse.
•
All information related to the suggestion of using tranylcypromine sulphate (Parnate)
as "appropriate alternative MAOI for patients", including …. a list detailing the
qualifications and professional experience regarding MAOI and treatment resistant
depression of those on the Mental Health Subcommittee of the Pharmacology and
Therapeutics Advisory Committee. Please also include any studies cited or external
professionals who were consulted.
PHARMAC is processing your request under the Official Information Act 1982 (OIA).
We are currently undertaking consultations in order to decide on your information request. To
facilitate this, I am extending the time limit for responding to your correspondence in
accordance with section 15A(1)(b) of the OIA.
We will respond to your request at the earliest opportunity, but no later than 19 June 2020.
Yours sincerely
Rachel Read
Manager, Policy and Government Services
2019-20-158; A1391562