Shortage of Popular Antipsychotic Drug Hits Russian Pharmacies

Supplies of the original medication Seroquel are disappearing from Russian pharmacies. The drug is a primary treatment for conditions such as schizophrenia, psychosis, and bipolar disorder. The current shortage is attributed to the transfer of marketing rights from AstraZeneca to the German company Cheplapharm, a process that began in 2019. Additionally, the relocation of production facilities has contributed to the supply disruption.

Despite the scarcity of the original brand-name drug, medical professionals note that numerous generic versions are available. Doctors report that patients switching from the original medication to these alternatives generally experience a smooth transition without significant issues. The situation highlights the ongoing changes in the pharmaceutical market regarding this specific treatment.

Patients seeking the original formulation of Seroquel are finding it increasingly difficult to locate in Russian pharmacies. The medication is widely recognized as one of the most popular original drugs used for the therapy of serious mental health conditions. These conditions include schizophrenia, various psychoses, and bipolar disorder.

The drug is essential for managing symptoms associated with these diagnoses. Its absence creates a gap for patients who have been stabilized on this specific brand. The disappearance of the medication from the market has raised concerns among those relying on it for daily management of their health.

The lack of availability is directly linked to corporate and logistical changes. Specifically, the issue stems from the transfer of rights regarding the drug. This transfer occurred between the British-Swedish pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca and the German entity Cheplapharm.

This transfer of rights was not an overnight event; it was initiated back in 2019. Alongside the change in ownership and marketing rights, there has been a relocation of the drug's production. The combination of the rights transfer and the production move has resulted in the current supply gap observed in the market.

While the original Seroquel is in short supply, doctors emphasize that patients have viable options. There are currently many generics of Seroquel available on the market. These generic versions contain the same active ingredient and are designed to provide the same therapeutic effect.

Physicians report that the transition for patients is usually uncomplicated. Those who previously took the original medication are able to switch to these alternatives. According to medical professionals, this switch usually passes without pain, meaning patients do not typically experience negative side effects or a loss of efficacy when moving to the generic versions.

The current situation regarding Seroquel in Russia is driven by a complex shift in corporate ownership and manufacturing logistics. The transfer from AstraZeneca to Cheplapharm and the subsequent production relocation have disrupted the supply chain for the original brand.

However, the pharmaceutical landscape offers a safety net through the availability of numerous generic alternatives. For patients dependent on this treatment, the recommendation from the medical community is to utilize these available generics. The evidence suggests that this transition is a safe and effective way to maintain continuity of care during this shortage period.