Omeprazole (Inj 40 mg ampoule): Supply issue

Affected product

The supplier advises that the following is not available:

• Chemical: Omeprazole
• Presentation: Inj 40 mg ampoule with diluent
• Brand: Dr Reddy's Omeprazole
• Pharmacode: 2310201
• Subsidy: $37.38
• Measure / Qty: per 5

Schedule listing for omeprazole ampoules(external link)

Unaffected products

Other presentations of omeprazole are unaffected by this issue. The 10, 20, and 40 mg capsules and powder omeprazole remain available. 

Section 29 alternative listed

The section 29 alternative has been previously supplied.

• Chemical: Omeprazole
• Presentation: Inj 40 mg ampoule with diluent
• Brand: Ocicure
• Pharmacode: 2586908
• Subsidy: $37.38
• Measure / Qty: per 5

Prescribing and supplying an unapproved medicine

Section 29A of the Medicines Act 1981 allows for medicines that are not Medsafe approved to be prescribed and supplied to people. 

We know supplying a medicine under section 29A is not ideal. In this case, however, this will allow patients to be able to access an appropriate treatment. 

We apologise for any inconvenience this causes. 

Advice for prescribing under section 29 – BPAC website(external link) 

Prescriber and pharmacist requirements for section 29 medicines – Medsafe website(external link)

What patients need to know about unapproved medicines – Healthify website(external link)

Expected resolution

The supplier expects the registered product will be available again in June 2026.

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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Pharmac is a government agency. We do not sell medicines or related products.