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This month sees another famous household brand Losec being switched to a generic Omeprazole brand called Dr Reddys, who has won the sole supplier rights until 30 June 2011. Losec is produce and distributed by the multinational company Astrazenecca. Losec has been the preferred PPI (proton pump inhibitor) of choice for the treatment of Dyspepsia and heartburn management by GPs throughout New Zealand over the last decade.
This brand switch will net Pharmac, a saving of $30 million over the next 5 years.The savings will be use to invest in new medicines.
Most patients have been smart enough to stock up on Losec before this change which means you will not need to worry until about March 2009.

How much will I pay if I want to stay on Losec?
If you do not mind Dr Reddys Omeprazole then your prescription charge will remain exactly the same but if you wish to stay with Losec the following likely prescription surcharges will apply on top of your normal prescription charges (prices subject to small variations from community pharmacies)

*Your normal prescription charges still applies on top of these surcharges 
Here is a first look at your new Dr Reddys Omeprazole

Where Can I get more information?
Pharmac has published a c onsumers information pamphlet  on the omeprazole brand switching.

Omeprazole patient information Brandswitch PDF

To View the PDF file

You can also visit www.Pharmac.govt.nz or www.gutreaction.co.nz

Pharmac wants your feedback
Any queries about this change, please contact the Pharmac help line 0800 66 00 50 (weekdays between 9am-4pm)