No Generics Switch: Is Tula's Cancer Drug Available?

In pharmacies in Tula and the region, there are problems with the availability of Carboplatin — a key drug in the fight against cancer. Similar difficulties have arisen in Moscow, Moscow Oblast, and Voronezh Oblast.

The reasons for the problem vary, but the main one cited is the rise in the drug«s price due to sanctions.

At the Tula Regional Oncology Center, things are somewhat better — the drug was purchased relatively recently, on 21 January. A total of 308 packages of the drug were purchased.

But is that a lot or a little? How long will the drug last, and does the region plan to switch to generics if a shortage occurs?

The 71.RU editorial team asked the regional Ministry of Health these questions. Here is the response we received.

«In Tula Oblast, «Carboplatin» for the treatment of oncological diseases is used strictly according to approved treatment regimens at the Tula Regional Clinical Oncology Dispensary. The drug is in stock; no switch to generics is planned at this time,» the ministry responded.

Unfortunately, officials did not provide more precise data on how long the drug will last (even approximately).

71.RU«s editorial team is closely monitoring the situation with the cancer drug.