King Pharmaceuticals' Procanbid Discontinued

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King Pharmaceuticals' Procanbid Discontinued; No Generic Available on US Market

The Heart Rhythm Society has confirmed that supplies of PROCANBID® are now depleted and that there is no alternative generic drug on the US market.

June 20, 2008 — Several months ago, King Pharmaceuticals®, Inc. issued notification to physicians that PROCANBID (Procainamide Hydrochloride Extended-Release tablets, 500mg, 1000mg) will no longer be available.

While the company noted that the decision was "based upon many factors, including our understanding of current medical therapy and the general availability of alternative anti-arrhythmics," the Society has confirmed that supplies are depleted and that there is no alternative generic drug on the US market.

Physicians should contact patients on this therapy. Physicians are encouraged to read King Pharmaceuticals' notification to physician (PDF, 116K) and contact the company's medical information line — 1(800) 776-3637, select Option #7 for “Professional Information Services” option — for further details.

On February 8th, 2008 the following article was e-mailed to Heart Rhythm Society members in Keeping Pace, in addition to the below website posting.

King Pharmaceuticals' Procanbid to be Discontinued

King Pharmaceuticals®, Inc. issued notification to physicians that PROCANBID (Procainamide Hydrochloride Extended-Release tablets, 500mg, 1000mg) will no longer be available. The company noted that the decision was "based upon many factors, including our understanding of current medical therapy and the general availability of alternative anti-arrhythmics."

Physicians are encouraged to read King Pharmaceuticals' notification to physician (PDF, 116K) and contact the company's medical information line — 1(800) 776-3637, select Option #7 for “Professional Information Services” option — for further details.

King Pharmaceuticals notes that PROCANBID® will remain available through pharmacies and wholesalers until current supplies are depleted. The drug is distributed through Monarch Pharmaceuticals®, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of King Pharmaceuticals. No additional product will be available after Monarch, pharmacy, and wholesaler supplies are exhausted. Available stock can be ordered through Kings Pharmaceutical’s Customer Service at 1(888) 840-5370.