UPDATE, 20 NOVEMBER, 2023: According to the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) Tresiba FlexTouch 100units/ml pens will be out of stock in the UK until December 2024.
There are currently shortages of the Tresiba FlexTouch insulin pen, which could affect people living with diabetes who take Tresiba insulin. Here’s what you need to know.
What’s the situation?
Tresiba is a long-acting insulin manufactured by Novo Nordisk. There is no current shortage of the insulin, however there is a shortage which impacts the FlexTouch insulin pen.
Tresiba FlexTouch is a disposable, pre-filled pen designed to be used with pen needles.
Tresiba FlexTouch 100units/ml pens are expected to be out of stock in the UK until December 2024.
Why is there a shortage of Tresiba FlexTouch?
The current shortage is due to disruption to plastic supply used for FlexTouch pens.
What is the alternative?
Novo Nordisk manufactures Tresiba in 100units/ml cartridges (Penfill), which remain available.
Due to the temporary FlexTouch shortage, your healthcare team might give you the option of continuing to use this insulin in cartridge form, but you will require a re-useable NovoPen that takes the cartridges. Your healthcare team should provide you with a prescription for the pen device and show you how to use it.
Your healthcare team also has the option to consider swapping your Tresiba medication to a suitable alternative, if clinically appropriate.
Jackie Higgins, Senior Clinical Advisor at Diabetes UK, said:
"We ask that healthcare professionals take into account individual’s circumstances and their needs. This should include a discussion to ensure people can continue to manage their treatment and should include a prescription for any new device they need."
More information and support on Tresiba FlexTouch
Ring our helpline with any questions or concerns on 0345 123 2399
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