UK News: MSD Preservative-Free Eye Drop Shortage

MSD UK is currently experiencing a shortage in the supply of preservative-free ophthalmic products, Trusopt preservative free eye drops, Timoptol (timolol maleate) preservative-free ophthalmic solution 0.25% and Timoptol preservative-free ophthalmic solution 0.5% unit dose.
 
There is a limited supply of Trusopt with demand exceeding supply and there is currently no stock available for Timoptol 0.5% and 0.25% in the UK.
 
The shortage of MSD's preservative-free medicines (Trusopt, Timoptol) is due to the overall increase in the global demand for preservative-free ophthalmic products.
 
MSD has taken action to expand production capacity by using our external manufacturing network.  However, these expansion efforts will take time to implement - at least through 2012.
We expect shortages of our preservative-free ophthalmic products to continue through 2012.
 
Patients are advised to consult their doctor to decide on an appropriate course of action, which may include discussing other preservative-free alternatives.
 
Supplies of other preservative-free eyedrops are not affected by this situation.

For further information please contact Sightline on 01233 64 81 70 or by email at info@iga.org.uk