Orencia Go Patient Materials

Learn more about your treatment with ORENCIA^® (abatacept)

15 May 2024

Orencia (abatacept) subcutaneous formulations are experiencing low stock and intermittent supply risk globally. This shortage is due to a combination of manufacturing delays and increased demand.

Due to the limited stock of Orencia (abatacept) prefilled syringe and ClickJect prefilled autoinjector, usage must be significantly reduced and supply tightly constrained to conserve stock for patients with no or limited alternatives. The Australian Rheumatology Association (ARA) have therefore recommended that this stock be conserved for patients who meet certain eligibility criteria. Most patients will need to switch to other medicines now. To ensure that eligible patients can access the available stock, BMS have developed the Orencia Stock Hypercare Plan (OSHP).

For more information on the ARA recommended criteria and/or the shortage please visit the ARA website. Instructions for pharmacists to explain the ordering process for abatacept subcutaneous presentations during this time can be accessed here.

To support patients on Orencia Subcutaneous formulations during this period, the TGA has put in place the Serious Scarcity Substitution Instrument (SSSI). This SSSI declares Orencia (abatacept) pre-filled syringe and the Orencia (abatacept) 125/mL subcutaneous autoinjector (ClickJect) as scarce and substitutable medicines, making the medicines effectively interchangeable at the pharmacy level. For more details please refer to TGA website: https://www.tga.gov.au/safety/shortages/information-about-major-medicine-shortages/about-2024-shortage-orencia-abatacept-medicines

BMS Australia is making every effort to resolve this situation as early as possible. We know the importance of steady and reliable supply of critical medicines for patients and remain committed to delivering this medicine to patients who need it. We continue to work closely with Australian Rheumatology Association (ARA) with the goal of minimising the impact of this shortage on Australian patients.

Patients should contact their treating physician with any questions they may have concerning their treatment.

There is no impact to the quality of Orencia.