Today I called Schwartz-Pharma (a.k.a. UCB) to inquire on the status of the Neupro patch.  Since my neurologist registered me in April with the company and asked for “compassionate use” for the continued use of the patch, I’ve only heard from the company once.  They sent me the two boxes of patches.  Along with the samples my doctor had, I’m soon to run out.

Isn’t it just like a corporation to be “vague” in their responses?  I called the main number 1-866-822-0068 and was told that there are now “dedicated” customer service reps that deal only with Neupro questions.  So, I called back and dialed “9″ for Med Info and then dialed “3″ for Neupro.  The lady that answered the phone was vague.  She couldn’t answer any of my questions about the re-release of the patch, or of the FDA approval.  She said that they were working on it as fast as they could.

The more interesting part of this call was when she told me that UCB was not giving out any Neupro patches on a “compassionate use” basis.  In order to obtain any more I would have to wait until UCB met with the FDA on a patient’s individual need to determine if the FDA would allow additional distribution.  I asked if there was any procedure that I could follow to appeal to UCB and the FDA, and was told there was none.

When I asked about obtaining the patch through sources in Canada or UK she told me that she didn’t have any details on those patches and whether they were similar to the ones that were distributed in the US.

So, after doing some research, I called the FDA Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.  I figure someone there has to know how the re-evaluation of the patch is progressing.  Well, in true Federal Government form, I couldn’t get one “real live” person to speak to me.  But I do have a phone number and name, and I’ve left a message.  If he’s the right person, I’ll post his information for all of you to call and inquire as well.

Also, while on the phone with UCB I was asked if I would answer a few questions about reactions or my response to using the patch.  I did so, but she did ask me to give her dates and Lot numbers from the remaining patches I have.

I don’t know if this information is helpful to anyone else.  However, I’m not giving up.  I am now determined to contact these people on a regular basis (since they log their calls) and let them know I am desperate to have these patches.

Of course, if one is wealthy you may always get them from the Canadian or Israeli online pharmacies.  Canada charges approx. $560 for 28 patches, and the Israeli online pharmacies charge $1,260.13 per 100 patches.

Don’t get me started on health care costs in the U.S. – or the profits drug manufacturers make.  Seems that UCB; Schwarz Pharma is still making a hefty profit on this in Europe and Canada.