Cancer Drug Shortage Hits BP Koirala Cancer Hospital
Summary
BP Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital in Nepal is facing a shortage of crucial cancer drugs like carboplatin and cisplatin due to a global supply issue, impacting patient treatment quality.
Key Points
- BP Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital is experiencing a shortage of key cancer drugs carboplatin and cisplatin due to a global shortage of raw materials.
- The shortage is affecting chemotherapy effectiveness and patient health, with risks from illegal and substandard drug use.
- About 200 patients undergo chemotherapy daily at the hospital, and some patients are forced to buy unregistered medicines from outside sources.
- The hospital and Ministry of Health have requested support from WHO and are seeking permission to use near-expiry medicines designated for children for other patients.
