Merck Canada Inc., distributor of SINEMET® (levodopa and carbidopa) in Canada, released a statement on October 30th, 2018 noting that there are global manufacturing delays in the production and resupply of these products. The limited supply, which may result in back orders, is expected to continue into 2019.
The following products are subject to delays in resupply:
| Product Name | Anticipated Out of Stock | Anticipated Resupply |
| SINEMET® 100 mg/25 mg | November 16, 2018 (anticipated) | Unknown |
| SINEMET® 250 mg/25 mg | October 15, 2018 (actual) | February 8, 2019 |
| SINEMET® CR 100 mg/25 mg | June 28, 2018 (actual) | Resolved as of January 22, 2019 |
| SINEMET® CR 200 mg/50 mg | February 8, 2019 (anticipated) | Unknown |
Some pharmacies have begun replacing SINEMET® with generics that are available in Canada. If you are switching to a generic, we caution that you may experience side effects. It is recommended that you speak with your neurologist and a pharmacist about any changes to your medication.
If you or someone you know has been having issues with a generic substitution, please report this to Health Canada’s Therapeutic Products Directorate. While Health Canada has listed the generics as equivalent, this may not be your lived experience. You can contact Health Canada at: hc.bps.enquiries.sc@canada.ca.
The most up-to-date information regarding SINEMET® supply details is available on www.drugshortagescanada.ca.
Last updated: January 29, 2019