Non-availability of D-penicillamine disrupts Panacea Biotec's Cilamin capsule supply

As a result of non-availability of raw material D-penicillamine in the country, Panacea Biotec has reported short supply of Cilamin 250 capsule in the market during the last few months. 

Recently, the company made available limited quantities of the product, used for treatment of Wilson’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis and other conditions, in the retail market.

“The temporary shortage is due to sudden disruption of supplies of raw material by qualified supplier beyond the control of the company. Since then company has been working tirelessly with alternate suppliers for supply of this raw material. Due to continuous efforts we have resumed limited production of Cilamin 250 and have released limited quantities in the market from September 26, 2016," said Panacea Biotec in a press statement.

The company has started the supply of new batches with limited quantities of Cilamin 250 from its manufacturing facility in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh.

Panacea Biotec is reportedly working closely with the existing and potential suppliers of D-penicillamine in China and India for access to the raw material in an accelerated manner.

"We are in touch with Drug Controller General of India office for allowing imports of raw material in parallel to registration process under this emergency situation to ensure continuous access of this medicine to patients while other alternative sources in India are being also worked upon in an aggressive manner," added Panacea Biotec in the release.

As per current estimates, the company expects to take another 2-4 weeks to get access to new supply of raw material and anticipates to normalise the production of Cilamin 250 capsule in the next 4 weeks.