Tony Ryall MP
National Party Health Spokesman

19 January 2007

Labour must explain adrenaline shortage

National Party Health spokesman Tony Ryall says the Labour Government must explain what it will do to stop the country's hospitals running out of important drugs.

He is commenting on complaints from the Medical Association that regular supplies of adrenaline have run out and that Pharmac has been forced into an emergency alternative supply.

The NZMA describes adrenaline as an essential drug used in emergency situations such as life threatening allergic reactions and cardiac arrest.

"Most Kiwis would think this only happens in Third World countries. People expect the Government to manage the supply of medicines so our hospitals don't run out.

"But just like the flu vaccine in 2005, here we are again, unable to supply basic and important drugs.

"A review of medicine purchasing policy in 2005 forced the Government into abandoning a single purchaser deal for the winter flu vaccine. This latest episode needs further investigation.

"How can our medicine supply managers get this so wrong?

"While an alternative temporary supply has averted a crisis, doctors are warning that lives may be at risk because of the different labelling. In the urgency of an emergency room this is an understandable concern.

"It's time for Labour to sort out this mess. Patients must come first."

ENDS

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