In March we witnessed the collapse of the global supply chain as the pandemic reaction kicked in. As the global healthcare demand suddenly increased drug availability began to dry up.
Due to Cornovirus drugs that were in short supply included: propofol, a sedative given to those on ventilation; fentanyl and alfentanil, two opioid painkillers used as part of the sedative cocktail in intensive care; and noradrenaline and clonidine, used to treat life-threateningly low blood pressure, vasopressors.
There were “limited supplies” of atracurium, cisatracurium and rocuronium, all muscle relaxants used during intubation — when patients are sedated and put on a ventilator to help them breathe.
When the finished dose forms become scarce small manufacturing units throughout the world jump in to fill the gap. They make small batches of unlicensed versions of the the scarce items. Since late February 2020, Active Pharma Supplies Ltd has been at the forefront of supplying these manufacturers with the essential materials needed to manufacture essential life saving medicines. Using our established global network of manufacturers and distributors we searched high and low for just small amounts of remaining batches that had not yet been sold.
I am proud to say that critical materials were supplied, we collaborated very closely with the our European network of partners. The Department of Trade and Industry, North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, UK Embassy in China, and the British Indian High Commission to deliver material in a significantly reduced transit time.
How important was this work, well we asked an NHS client what it meant.
“There is a licensed product available in vials—but in very limited supply, plus there is the time saved for the nursing staff who can administer the drug quickly-the drug is used to regulate blood pressure, without this item on ITU the patient will die. (apologies if that may appear blunt-but that is the reality of the situation).”
We specialise in supplying raw materials and repacking services for the pharmaceutical industry. Orders small and very large, all are treated with the same attention.
We welcome your enquires. Please email sales@activepharma.co.uk
