The European Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has been informed by Genzyme Europe B.V that due to a manufacturing issue, there will be a supply shortage of Thyrogen (thyrotropin alfa), until July 2011. Genzyme will only be able to supply Thyrogen to meet approximately 45% of EU demand through to July 2011.

This product is licensed for the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid tissue remnants post thyroidectomy in patients with thyroid cancer. During the shortage, it is advised that Thyrogen use should be restricted to those patients who are not able to tolerate thyroid hormone withdrawal, or in whom thyroid hormone withdrawal would not be effective. Where possible, Thyrogen use for other patients should be delayed until supply of Thyrogen improves. If such delay is not acceptable, the clinician and patient should consider alternative treatment options.