There is a shortage of drugs based on pancreatic enzymes in Italy, causing concern for patients who rely on them for their daily well-being. Fedez, a 34-year-old rapper who has undergone surgery for pancreatic cancer, recently denounced the lack of pancreatic enzymes on his Instagram account. These drugs are vital for patients who have undergone surgery for pancreatic cancer, as well as those who have had other gastric tumors or diseases that have damaged the pancreas.
Pancreatic enzymes, also known as pancrelipase, contain a mixture of enzymes such as lipase, amylase, and protease, necessary for the digestion of food. Patients who suffer from exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, a condition that occurs when the pancreas is no longer able to produce the necessary enzymes for digestion, rely on these medications for their day-to-day functioning.
The shortage has been attributed to production problems and high demand, leading to the unavailability of the only enzyme-based drug, Creon, authorized in Italy. The shortage is not only limited to pancreatic enzymes but also extends to other essential medicines, with almost 2,500 products facing supply issues in the country.
According to the Ministry of Health and the Italian Medicines Agency (AIFA), necessary measures are being taken to address the shortage, and patients are being provided with alternative options or equivalent medicines. Despite these efforts, the shortage is expected to last until December 31, 2025, causing concerns for the well-being of many patients.
The unavailability of essential medications has raised widespread concerns, especially as it affects critical treatments for various conditions, including antivirals, antibiotics, anticoagulants, and vaccines. Patients, like Fedez, are struggling to find the medications they need, and the situation highlights the importance of addressing supply chain issues to ensure the availability of vital drugs for those who rely on them for their health.