Proposal to Ensure Ongoing Supply of Hospital Medicines in New Zealand
Key Ideas
- Juno Pharmaceuticals New Zealand Limited is proposed to supply chlorhexidine and hydrogen peroxide medicines to hospitals in New Zealand from December 2024.
- The proposal aims to replace Pfizer as the main supplier for these medicines due to Pfizer discontinuing manufacturing from its Perth site.
- Up to 30,000 people are estimated to benefit from the ongoing supply of these hospital medicines in the first year.
- The consultation for the proposal closes on 17th October 2024, and feedback can be emailed to consult@pharmac.govt.nz.
The proposal in New Zealand seeks feedback on the funding of new brands of chlorhexidine 0.015% with cetrimide 0.15% and hydrogen peroxide 3% solution in hospitals starting from December 2024. This initiative is in response to Pfizer's decision to halt manufacturing in Perth, Australia, affecting the supply of various pharmaceuticals in New Zealand. Juno Pharmaceuticals is set to replace Pfizer in supplying these critical medicines, with a provisional agreement reached with Pharmac to ensure ongoing availability. The proposed products would be listed in the Hospital Medicines List and funded for use without restrictions. The estimated 30,000 individuals are expected to benefit from this supply in the first year.
Chlorhexidine with cetrimide is an antiseptic solution used for irrigation, approved for cleaning skin and open wounds in New Zealand. Hydrogen peroxide, an oxidizing agent, is utilized for disinfecting the skin. The proposal aims to secure the availability of these essential hospital medicines for individuals in Health New Zealand hospitals.
The timeline for implementation includes listing Juno's products in the Hospital Medicines List from December 2024, with Principal Supply Status lasting until February 2028. Feedback on the proposal is welcomed until 17th October 2024 via email. Juno's products' prices will be notified upon approval, with no rebate proposed. The agreement with Juno includes a 5% Alternative Brand Allowance for each product, ensuring a continuous supply. Feedback received will be considered by Pharmac's Board before making a final decision. Consultation feedback may be shared under the Official Information Act 1982, with provisions for keeping commercially sensitive or confidential information confidential upon request.