Novartis Azarga Eye Drops Have Been Unavailable for Months, Putting Glaucoma Patients at Risk
I am required to use Novartis Azarga 10 mg/mL + 5 mg/mL sterile suspension eye drops regularly, both in the morning and evening, due to my diagnosed glaucoma. My eyes are sensitive and prone to allergic reactions, so my doctor cannot prescribe other eye drops for me. Other eye drops have been tried in the past, but my condition could only be adequately controlled with Azarga.
I have been told by pharmacies that this medication has not been supplied to them for approximately five months, and I have personally been unable to find it anywhere for about three months. My doctor has clearly warned me that if I do not use these eye drops regularly, my eye pressure may increase and I could experience vision loss. My father also experienced vision loss due to the same condition, and because there is a hereditary component in my family, being unable to access this medication creates an even greater concern for me.
Even though I have a valid prescription and a medical report for this medication, I continue to receive the same response from pharmacies: “It is unavailable.” We have also repeatedly asked pharmacies in surrounding cities, but the medication cannot be found anywhere. In the past, I was able to purchase it at my own expense whenever I found it, but I can no longer obtain it by any means. Being unable to access a medication that I am required to use continuously has caused me serious hardship and anxiety.
I believe Novartis has been extremely unresponsive to this situation and that the concerns of patients are not being adequately heard. I request a clear explanation regarding the supply and production status of Azarga eye drops, that the medication be made regularly available in pharmacies again, and that an urgent solution be provided for patients like me who have a medical report and depend on this medication for continuous treatment.
I ask Novartis to address this matter with the urgency it deserves, provide transparent information about the availability of Azarga, and take the necessary steps to prevent patients from being left without access to their essential medication.
