THE TGA states that it is aware of shortages of cefaclor oral liquid products Keflor and Ceclor.
The medicines regulator said these shortages are due to an unexpected increase in demand.
The current global shortage of antibiotics and long lead times for ingredients have significantly impacted supply.
The TGA to help minimise the impact of the cefaclor oral liquid shortage on patients and healthcare professionals, has made a Serious Scarcity Substitution Instrument (SSSI).
The TGA's SSSI for cefaclor declares both 125mg/5ml and 250mg/5ml cefaclor oral liquid strengths as scarce medicines.
The SSSI states that all cefaclor oral liquid strengths are substitutable medicines as per the substitution protocol provided in the table included in the SSSI-external site.
This SSSI allows a pharmacist to provide another strength of cefaclor oral liquid when the prescribed medicine is unavailable, without prior approval from the prescriber.
The SSSI is in force from 01 May until 30 Sep 2023.
It may be extended if the shortage continues, or the TGA may revoke the SSSI before its end date if the serious scarcity is resolved, or safety concerns are identified and is in effect in all states and territories.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 02 May 23
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