CMA opens competition investigation into drug for treatment of bi-polar disease

CMA opens competition investigation into drug for treatment of bi-polar disease

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has started an investigation into a suspected abuse of dominance by Essential Pharma over its decision to cease supply of Priadel, a medicine for the treatment of bi-polar disease.

The CMA believes that the withdrawal of Priadel could mean that patients need to switch to alternative, more expensive treatments, such as Camcolit.

This is of particular concern due to the increased and ongoing pressure on the NHS given the COVID-19 pandemic.

Following the opening of the CMA’s investigation, Essential Pharma has said that it will continue to supply Priadell to facilitate pricing discussions.  This was after the Department of Health and Social Care asked the CMA to impose interim measures.

The CMA's investigation remains open as the prospect of withdrawal remains unless agreement can be reached on price.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/cma-to-investigate-the-supply-of-bipolar-drug