A few weeks ago, my physician notified me that the manufacturers were phasing out the drug, Anagrelide. It was suggested that I could call around to try and locate some Anagrelide so I wouldn’t have to switch to the alternate med, Hydroxyurea. It seemed that many pharmacies were stating that the drug was on back order for 7 days or more and was unsure of the reason why.
I, then contacted the manufacturer, Ivax formerlry known as Teva. I was informed that the capsules were on back order and the product was expected to be in the pharmacy within 21 days but that could change. After being tired of the run around, I sent an email to the MPN Research Foundation to inquire about the meds phasing out.
The next day, Michelle Woehrle promptly responded that she was unaware but she didn’t stop there. Two days later, she provided the information that I needed to understand what was taking place- Mylan Pharmaceuticals discontinued Angrelide capsules in 2015; Teva can’t provide a reason why but they had a back order. The company estimated a release date in early- March 2016. The brand name capsules, Agrylin, were available for me to use and I didn’t have to switch to the alternate meds.
I really appreciate Michelle’s help. Without her help, I wouldn’t have known that Agrylin was available to me. I’ll continue to support the MPN Research Foundation for life. I’d never heard of them until I received my diagnosis of ET in January of last year. I’m still learning about ET and I feel good knowing that MPN is out there. If there’s ever anything I can assist Michelle with, all she has to do is call or email and I’m there.
Contributed by Jennifer Acker
These represent first person accounts of real people living with Essential Thrombocythemia, Polycythemia Vera and Myelofibrosis. It does not represent the views or opinions of anyone associated with the MPN Research Foundation. Please consult your doctor before taking any action to manage your health.