Home / Health / MS Patient Suffers Horrific Pain Amid Drug Shortage
MS Patient Suffers Horrific Pain Amid Drug Shortage
28 Oct
Summary
- Multiple sclerosis patient endures severe pain due to drug unavailability.
- Nabilone, a crucial MS medication, is out of stock until December.
- UK drug shortages are increasing, impacting patient care significantly.
A multiple sclerosis (MS) patient, Jill Kenning, reports enduring "horrific pain" after being unable to access Nabilone, a drug essential for managing her condition. She has spent most of her time in bed since her supply ran out last Tuesday.
Northern Ireland's health department confirmed that Nabilone is out of stock with wholesalers across the UK, with supplies not expected until December. This shortage is part of a broader trend, as the number of drugs in short supply in the UK has been steadily increasing this year.
Kenning, diagnosed with MS in 2008, found Nabilone significantly improved her quality of life after a severe relapse. Without it, she experiences intense pain, described as being "stabbed with a hot poker."
Despite being prescribed alternative medications, Kenning stated they have been ineffective, leading to a decline in her health. She is now advocating for other patients affected by this disruption, questioning how to cope with the pain and manage daily life.
The Department of Health acknowledged the disruption, noting that both licensed doses of Nabilone were unavailable. They are working with other health bodies to manage the situation and have advised healthcare professionals on alternative treatments, including potential unlicensed imports.
