PROGRAF XL is being replaced with ADVAGRAF XL

PROGRAF® XL is being discontinued and replaced with the existing ‘a flagged’ ADVAGRAF® XL (tacrolimus prolonged-release, once-daily capsules), and all SKUs (0.5mg,1mg and 5mg) will be removed from the PBS on 1 October, 2019.

Astellas Pharma appreciates pharmacists’ important role in this transition to ADVAGRAF XL.

Due to unprecedented recent demand, your next PROGRAF XL 0.5mg should be Advagraf XL 0.5mg. API will substitute any existing order for Prograf XL 0.5mg with ADVAGRAF XL.

Why introduce ADVAGRAF XL?

ADVAGRAF XL has been introduced as a quality use of medicine initiative.

The similarity in name between the Astellas twice-daily form of tacrolimus (PROGRAF®) and the once-daily form of tacrolimus (PROGRAF XL) can lead to an increased risk for prescribing, dispensing and patient error.

These errors may lead to under or over immunosuppression.

Is there a difference between PROGRAF XL and ADVAGRAF XL?

ADVAGRAF XL and PROGRAF XL are identical except for the brand name and packaging. Both are manufactured by Astellas, in Kerry, Ireland.

The TGA indications, PBS listings and codes are identical, therefore PROGRAF XL can be replaced with ADVAGRAF XL.

Wholesaler codes are provided in the table below.

What do you need to do?

• Review current patients on PROGRAF XL0.5mg and communicate change to them. Astellas will provide educational materials to help communicate the change to patients and other HCPs.
• Review and replace purchasing codes with new ADVAGRAF XL codes
• Continue to dispense Prograf XL until 30th September or until stock depleted

For ADVAGRAF XL Product information, patient material or any other enquiries please contact Astellas Medical Information Department, 1800 751 755 or aaumedinfo@astellas.com.

For any supply chain enquires please contact Merik Nijhar on merik.nijhar@astellas.com 02 9814 1169.