Parkinson's sufferers facing drug shortage

Sinemet is one of the main drugs used to manage the debilitating symptoms of the disease.

But according to the charity Parkinson's UK, some people have been told to look elsewhere for the drug by pharmacists after global stocks ran low.

The concern is this will leave them no option but to switch to an alternative drug which may cause unpleasant side effects.

Drug company Merck has said supplies could be limited until 2011, but Parkinson's UK says that is unacceptable and is urging patients to write to the company's medical director demanding an end to the shortage.

The charity's chief executive Steve Ford said: "The shortage of Sinemet has caused anxiety and deep distress for people who are already trying to cope with the impact of Parkinson's.

"People with Parkinson's throughout the UK rely on Sinemet to treat their condition – Merck has a responsibility to them. Waiting until 2011 is simply not good enough."

People are advised to see their nurse or doctor about the best alternatives.

Merck Sharp & Dohme said they were doing everything they could to restore normal supplies, adding: "Tablets containing the same active ingredient as Sinemet are available from other manufacturers, and the NHS has issued guidance on how patients can be transferred on www.nelm.nhs.uk.

This will require the prescription to be re-written, and patients should discuss this with their doctors."

The DoH said manufacturers "are legally required to ensure that the supply chain is safeguarded and medicines reach patients."