The antipsychotic medication Seroquel XR, used to treat patients with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression, will be available in pharmacies by February 14, ending a six-month shortage that has severely impacted patients.
The Health Insurance Organisation (HIO) made this announcement following reports by philenews highlighting the desperate situation of psychiatric patients, some of whom had reached crisis point due to the abrupt discontinuation of their medication.
HIO Senior Officer Gnosia Achniotou told Alpha TV that patients’ concerns were entirely justified. “We are doing everything possible to address these shortages”, she said, explaining that when local suppliers cannot meet demands, HIO works with the Ministry of Health to source medications from abroad.
The shortage has particularly affected previously stable patients, with some becoming bedridden and unable to maintain their daily social and work responsibilities.
Many of these patients had histories of suicide attempts but had achieved stability through the medication.
The supplier has confirmed to HIO that the medication will be available in pharmacies by February 14, Achniotou added.
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