The bypassing agent Novoseven (FVIIA) produced by Novo Nordisk is currently in short supply globally due to a supply chain issue. This treatment is used in the bleeding disorders community primarily by people with haemophilia with inhibitors either prophylactically, to treat bleeding episodes if they are on Hemlibra, or for surgery. NovoSeven is also used in the treatment of some rare bleeding disorders.
The Haemophilia Treatment Centres are taking steps to mitigate this shortage and details will be found below. Further information will also be provided by the Society as it becomes available to us. This will be found on our social media, website and e-zines. The Society has also written and sent letters to the relevant members.
Information from Haemophilia treatment centres
What is the supply issue with NovoSeven?
There is a global shortage of NovoSeven stocks due to a supply chain issue. The company, Novo Nordisk, are working to resolve this issue as quickly as possible. However, the likelihood is that Ireland will experience shortages in supply of NovoSeven which will last until at least the end of the year.
In the meantime, the treatment centres are working closely with the National CFC co-ordinator Evelyn Singleton and with Novo Nordisk to manage the stocks we have and conserve them for acute bleeding or urgent procedures as well as maintaining stocks for the small number of patients who use NovoSeven for prophylaxis.
Who is affected?
Only people who have NovoSeven as a treatment of choice are affected by this shortage. Within this group, many people have other treatment options instead of NovoSeven. Please talk to your treatment centre if you would like to learn more about your treatment options.
Will I be able to have treatment for acute bleeding or urgent surgery?
We will be able to treat acute bleeding and urgent surgery with NovoSeven if you need it.
Will there be any change to planned surgeries or procedures?
We will defer any non-urgent procedures where NovoSeven is needed to prevent bleeding. If it is possible to use a different treatment to prevent bleeding after a planned procedure, then your treatment centre will discuss this with you.
What will happen for people on prophylaxis with NovoSeven?
Prophylaxis with NovoSeven will continue as usual.
Will there be more information provided as the situation changes?
Yes, there will be updates sent to the Irish Haemophilia Society as soon as available from Novo Nordisk, the Irish treatment centres and the international patient organisations.