Sinemet supply shortage position statement

In Central Queensland, News, Sunshine Coast, Wide Bay by PHN Communications

The Australasian Neuroscience Nurses Association Movement Disorder Chapter & The Movement Disorder Society of Australia and New Zealand have released a joint position statement advising of a Sinemet shortage.

Sinemet (levodopa/carbidopa) is a medication commonly used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease as well as other neurological disorders.

From 23 August 2018, there has been an international supply shortage of various formulations of Sinemet including:

  • Sinemet 250/25 immediate release
  • Sinemet 100/25 immediate release
  • Sinemet CR 200/50controlled release

The shortage is expected to continue until 31 December 2019 and only emergency supplies for these products are available.

A table intended to provide clinicians and patients with information about options regarding substitute medications for Sinemet can be found here.