The MAA has continued to engage with government and industry stakeholders to ensure there is clarity and continued access to Mestinon 180mg and 60mg at a manageable cost for MG patients in Australia. We understand that this supply shortage has caused distress and concern for some of our community and we encourage you to check in with your Doctors as needed. Below is a comprehensive update on the current situation and we thank you for your patience as we navigate this unique and complex situation.

Thank you also to everyone who completed our short survey concerning your use of these two medications as this data can help with our ongoing conversations with industry and government.

Timespan (180mg):  

• • A reminder that the Section 19A 180mg product has been approved and is subsidised by the PBS.
  • This product is coming in to Australia through Medsurge and they are filling orders as they come in.
  • The shortage of the usual Australian-registered Timespan is expected to be impacted until 24 March 2023 and the Section 19A arrangements have been approved until 31 May 2023 to assist with this shortage.

60mg:

• • The Section 19A 60mg product has been approved and there will be no interference with any of the PBS listing arrangements for this medication. Please note there are some constraints in place to reduce stockpiling and orders from pharmacies are limited to ‘1 product bottle per order’ to ensure that the majority of patients can get access to the medicine until the shortage is resolved.
  • The sponsor, iNova, has confirmed that supplies of the Australian-registered Mestinon 60mg tablets are in transit and the shortage of this usual 60mg product is expected to be resolved late December 2022 (sooner than initially expected). iNova is confident that the Section 19A supply can cover the market until the shortage resolves.

For both of the above, please take your normal prescription to your pharmacy and then your pharmacist contacts the relevant sponsor (Medsurge for 180mg and iNova for 60mg) to order and fill your script. It is important to be vigilant with your own supply of your medication and please get your scripts in earlier than you normally would to ensure your order can be placed and you do not run out.

Thank you again for your patience and understanding. The MAA represents MG patients at the national level and if you have any further concerns or feedback, please contact us.

Email info@mgaq.org.au or call 1800 802 568

Email info@myasthenia.org.au or call (02) 4283 2815

Wishing you and your families the very best for a safe, healthy, and happy Christmas and New Year.

 Natalie Windle, MAA Secretary