Pur-Bloka in short supply in Springs

Patients in Springs face delays in getting hold of Pur-Bloka.

Pur-Bloka is used to treat tremors, heart rhythm disorders, hypertension and chest pain amongst other conditions.

The popular medication has not been available in some private facilities since October last year.

According to Litha Healthcare Group, the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Pur-Bloka, there is a shortage of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (propranolol) that is required to make Pur-Bloka.

“We are working on resolving the issue as a matter of urgency.

“As such, we have acted responsibly in line with the Medicine Control Council requirements.

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“We have sent out ‘Dear Healthcare Practitioner’ letters informing pharmacists and doctors with regards to the situation and informing them of other alternatives currently available on the market.

“We are prohibited by law and the marketing code authority to market and communicate directly to patients regarding scheduled products,” says Verushka Hansrajh, a medical executive at Litha Healthcare Group.

Patients need not panic as there are alternatives to Pur-Bloka.

The two main alternatives to Pur-Bloka are Inderal and Indoblok. For a person who takes 160mg a day, the Inderal costs R1 324.80 per month.

Indoblok is the cheaper alternative and costs R62.40 per month for someone who takes 160mg per day.

In comparison, Pur-Bloka costs R124.80 per month for someone who takes 160mg a day.

If a patient is prescribed Inderal, the price of the medication means it is out of reach for most consumers.

The alternative prescribed for each patient will differ according to the needs of that patient and one should consult their doctor to find the medication that works for them.

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