update on greenstone hydrocortisone
Pfizer is transitioning it’s generic Greenstone hydrocortisone products to a new company called Viatris.
There is still a locate service but instead of using the online process, patients need to call Viatris (the new company) and speak with a customer relations representative. They will take the information and help locate supply in your area. They are still in the process of transitioning from Pfizer and expect to have an improved service in December. The Customer Relations Locate Team can be reached at 1.800.796.9526 between 8 AM- 5 PM EST, Monday-Friday. Choose customer relations, press 2
Also, on a positive note, according to the FDA Shortage Database, hydrocortisone tablets (both Generic and Cortef Brand) are in better supply, with less lags in inventory.
There is still a locate service but instead of using the online process, patients need to call Viatris (the new company) and speak with a customer relations representative. They will take the information and help locate supply in your area. They are still in the process of transitioning from Pfizer and expect to have an improved service in December. The Customer Relations Locate Team can be reached at 1.800.796.9526 between 8 AM- 5 PM EST, Monday-Friday. Choose customer relations, press 2
Also, on a positive note, according to the FDA Shortage Database, hydrocortisone tablets (both Generic and Cortef Brand) are in better supply, with less lags in inventory.
update on strides hydrocortisone tablets
The National Adrenal Diseases Foundation (NADF) contacted the Strides/Vensun pharmaceutical company regarding issues patients with adrenal insufficiency were experiencing when they started the Strides/Vensun generic hydrocortisone due to the shortage of the Greenstone generic. In response, the company conducted a detailed analysis and concluded that the medication is safe and effective.
However, many of you have indicated that you have had symptoms of low cortisol when you switched.
However, many of you have indicated that you have had symptoms of low cortisol when you switched.
- If you do have any issues, please work with your individual doctors about adjusting their dose. http://bit.ly/NADF_med_bio
- Please be proactive about reporting any adverse events or issues with the generic via the FDA MedWatch or directly to the company. You can find the link here: https://www.fda.gov/media/76299/download
FDA drug shortage website updated their information regarding availability of hydrocortisone
September 9, 2021
Most Current FDA Shortage Information can be found here:
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/drugshortages/dsp_ActiveIngredientDetails.cfm?AI=Hydrocortisone+Tablets&panels=1&st=c&tab=tabs-4&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Most Current FDA Shortage Information can be found here:
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/drugshortages/dsp_ActiveIngredientDetails.cfm?AI=Hydrocortisone+Tablets&panels=1&st=c&tab=tabs-4&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
NADF HYDROCORTISONE SURVEY RESULTS
Since last year, Greenstone hydrocortisone tablets have been in short supply and many are taking Strides/Vensun generic hydrocortisone as a replacement.
Based on a recent NADF survey, this shortage has been causing unwanted side effects for many people.
Based on a recent NADF survey, this shortage has been causing unwanted side effects for many people.
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The Vensun product from Strides is available but many are reporting issues.
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59% of the respondents say they cannot get their usual hydrocortisone tablets: Greenstone 5mg and 10mgs. Although the product is still limited, those that can get Greenstone have used Greenstone’s locator service or their pharmacy has located the Greenstone product.
Most respondents say they have not felt as well on the replacement. Most common side effects noted when their usual brand was replaced by Strides/Vensun included nausea, weakness and fatigue. |
There are things you can do!
- When you experience an adverse event, fill out the FDA MedWatch form 3500 to report it. This is the best way to get information to the FDA on product issues.
- You may need to adjust your hydrocortisone dose. Please read Dr. Margulies’ statement on medication bioequivalency here.
- Be sure to let your pharmacy know if you need help locating Greenstone or any other specific product. They are often very helpful!
There were 93 responses as of the July 11th update.
