Bupivacaine hydrochloride (Marcain) Inj 2.5 mg per ml, 100 ml bag: Hospital discontinuation
Aspen is discontinuing the presentation Inj 2.5 mg per ml, 100 ml bag of its Marcain product (Pharmacode 2077728).
Affected product
Aspen, the supplier, has decided to discontinue this due to low demand and declining global use rates.
Bupivacaine hydrochloride with adrenaline
- Brand: Bupivacaine hydrochloride
- Presentation: Inj 2.5 mg per ml, 100 ml bag
- Pharmacode: 2077728
- Price: $150
- Measure / Qty: per 5
HML listing for bupivacaine hydrochloride with adrenaline(external link)
All other presentations of Marcain brand bupivacaine hydrochloride will remain listed in the HML.
Alternative product
Clinical advice from members of the Analgesic Advisory Committee suggests ropivacaine 0.2%, 100 ml bag is a suitable alternative.
- Presentation: Inj 2 mg per ml, 100 ml bag
- Brand: Ropivacaine Kabi
- Pharmacode: 2479125
- Price: $32.85
- Measure / Qty: per 5
HML Listing for ropivacaine(external link)
Key dates
Aspen expects remaining stock will run out by March 2025, after this, Marcain 0.25% 100 ml bag will no longer be available.
Who to contact
If you have questions about this issue, email enquiry@pharmac.govt.nz
Please include as much information as you can about the product (presentation, brand, pharmacode) and who your wholesaler is.
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