Government update over 'supply issues' for these two medications

The Government has issued an update about on-going supply issues affecting some epilepsy medications. Labour MP Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi asked in a written question in Parliament what assessment the Department for Health and Social Care has made of the "adequacy of the supply of epilepsy medications". There have been reports over the past few years of medicine shortages, including for epilepsy medication.

Health minister Zubir Ahmed issued a response from the Government. He said: "The department is working hard with industry to help resolve intermittent supply issues with some epilepsy medications.

"As a result of ongoing activity and intensive work, including asking manufacturers to expedite deliveries, most issues have been resolved." However, he did say some people are still having issues getting two medications in particular.

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Mr Ahmed said: "We are currently aware of a supply issue affecting topiramate 25mg, 50mg, 100mg and 200mg tablets and phenobarbital 15mg tablets, used in the management of epilepsy, from certain manufacturers. Resupply from the affected manufacturers is yet to be confirmed but stock remains available from alternative manufacturers to meet patient demand, and we have issued management guidance to the National Health Service."

What is topiramate?

Guidance on the NHS website explains that topiramate is used as a medicine for epilepsy and to treat migraines. It works by reducing bursts of electrical activity in the brain, helping restore the normal balance of nerve activity.

This medicine is only available on prescription. You usually take it twice a day. You can get it in the form of tablets, in capsules or as a liquid.

If you are taking it for epilepsy, it can take two to four weeks to work properly.

What is phenobarbital?

Phenobarbital, or phenobarbitone, is used to reduce the frequency and severity of epileptic seizures. You can get is as a tablet or in the form of a liquid.