Shortage of Nexobrid in Italy: A Concern for Burn Treatment
The recent fire in Crans-Montana has highlighted the importance of effective burn treatment, and one crucial medication, Nexobrid, is facing a shortage in Italy. According to the Italian Medicines Agency (AIFA), Nexobrid is among the list of shortage drugs, which has raised concerns for the treatment of young victims hospitalized in the country.
What is Nexobrid and How Does it Work?
Nexobrid, produced by Mediwound, is a medication used to treat burns, and it is marketed in Italy by Mediwound Germany. The drug is available in powder and gel forms and is authorized for use in the European Union since 2012. Nexobrid contains the active ingredient bromelain, a substance derived from pineapple stems, which dissolves long protein chains into simpler units, allowing for the removal of damaged tissues caused by burns.
The Italian Medicines Agency has reported that the 2-gram dosage of Nexobrid has ceased production, while the 5-gram dosage is facing production problems. As a result, AIFA has issued an import authorization for healthcare facilities to obtain similar drugs authorized abroad. This measure is typically applied in extreme cases where there are no valid therapeutic alternatives available on the Italian market.
Alternatives to Nexobrid
According to Steven Paul Nisticò, Professor of Dermatology at the Sapienza University of Rome and the Umberto I Polyclinic, there are both surgical and pharmacological alternatives to Nexobrid. Surgery can remove damaged tissues, although it may take longer and require anesthesia. Additionally, alternative drugs based on proteolytic enzymes other than bromelain, such as collagenase, are available.
While the shortage of Nexobrid is a concern, it is essential to note that AIFA has taken measures to ensure that patients receive the necessary treatment. The agency’s authorization for importing similar drugs highlights the importance of finding alternative solutions to address the shortage.
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