Notice of Stock Shortage – Sinemet CR 200/50mg

There will be a significant shortage in the supply of SINEMET CR tablets in Australia starting in early 2010 and continuing into 2011 (for about one year).  The shortage is due to changes in the manufacturing arrangements for SINEMET CR and is not related to any quality or safety issue.  It will affect other countries beside Australia.

MSD (the Australian supplier of SINEMET CR tablets), regret to inform Parkinson’s Australia that this means that many people will not be able to continue treatment with SINEMET CR, but may be able to take an alternative treatment instead.

Please note that the shortage of SINEMET CR does not affect the availability of SINEMET 100/25mg or SINEMET 250/25mg tablets.

MSD recommends that patients currently taking SINEMET CRtablets make an appointment with their doctor as soon as possible to review their current medication and consider alternative treatment options.  We encourage patients to see their doctor as soon as possible.

Any questions about the availability of SINEMET CR should be directed to a doctor or pharmacist who will be provided with information about the situation.

For further information contact the Merck Sharp & Dohme medical information line on 1800 645 712.