Interferon alfa-2b returns to stock at the Oncology Institute

Alpha-2b interferon was temporarily unavailable to patients because the supplier failed to meet its contractual obligations, the Ministry of Health announced. The medicine has immunomodulatory and antitumor effects and may be prescribed for certain oncological and hematological conditions, on the recommendation of an oncologist or hematologist.

The Ministry apologized to patients who encountered difficulties because of the lack of treatment and said it is working to prevent the situation from recurring. Alpha-2b interferon is not a first-line treatment for most types of cancer, and its administration depends on each patient’s diagnosis and condition.

The authorities are analyzing the mechanisms for procuring and delivering medicines in order to identify potential supply problems at an early stage. In July, the Government approved the concept and regulations for the Information System for Monitoring Medicine Stocks. Once implemented, the platform is expected to flag the risk of stock depletion and enable intervention before medicines become unavailable. The Ministry emphasizes that ensuring continuity of treatment is the priority.

Authorities are also reviewing medicine procurement and delivery mechanisms to identify potential supply problems early. In July, the Government approved the concept and regulations for the Information System for Monitoring Medicine Stocks. Once implemented, the platform is expected to flag the risk of stock depletion and enable intervention before medicines become unavailable. The Ministry emphasizes that ensuring continuity of treatment is the priority.