In Russia there is a shortage of an imported drug containing ethosuximide, which is used to relieve epileptic seizures in children. RBC was made aware of this in the charitable foundations “ Tradition & # 39; & # 39; and the right direction. In addition, the absence of the drug was confirmed by representatives of some pharmacy chains.
Dozens of children stopped receiving the drug, according to Tradition. 192 families have already applied for the funds in need of medication, and applications continue to flow.
Why is there a shortage of drugs?
One of RBC's drugstore chains reported that the company that owns the drug's patent is not currently supplying it to Russia. The reasons for the lack of supply are unknown. Another pharmacy chain reported that the drug is not dispensed because distributors do not have it.
96% of drug sales in 2021 were government purchases, 4% & mdash; at retail, according to data from analysis firm DSM Group. Sales of the German drug in 2021 fell by more than 55% compared to the first seven months of 2020. If during this period last year the drug was purchased for 23.7 million rubles, then this year & mdash; of 10.6 million rubles.
What is ethosuximide?
Ethosuximide (international nonproprietary name) is on the Essential and Essential Medicines (VED) list. It is an anticonvulsant and an antiepileptic. It is prescribed for absence epilepsy in children, when a person freezes for a short time and does not respond to stimuli. The drug prevents the development of this condition.
Ethosuximide is contraindicated with hypersensitivity to the components of the drug. It is not recommended for children under six years old. The drug is prescribed with caution to people with mental illness, as well as to patients with liver or kidney failure.
According to the National Drug Registry (GRLS), a pharmaceutical company German and two Russian pharmaceutical companies have a registration certificate for a drug with this active ingredient. .
There are contraindications. A medical consultation is required.
Sources:
rbc.ru
rlsnet.ru
eapteka.ru