From 30 September 2024, the following insulins will no longer be available in Aotearoa New Zealand: Penmix30, Penmix50 and Mixtard30.
NZSSD has issued recommendations for switching to alternative insulins (file linked below), but please be aware Novomix30 is dispensed in a pre-filled disposable pen, whereas patients will require a Humapen for the Humulin and Humalog configurations as these insulins are dispensed in cartridges.
This may be the ideal time to review the management of your patients prescribed Penmix30, Penmix50, or Mixtard30, as they may be suitable for non-insulin medication that was not available when they first started using insulin.
Consider referring these patients to the diabetes lead nurse in your practice, or contacting the Pinnacle clinical diabetes specialist in your area if you would like further information about this.
Kathy joined Pinnacle earlier this month as clinical diabetes specialist for Waikato, replacing the role previously held by Anne Waterman.
Read moreFrom 1 December 2025, Pharmac will remove Special Authority renewal requirements for several treatments, including insulin pump consumables, continuous glucose monitors, LAMA/LABA inhalers, epoetin alfa, budesonide capsules, and febuxostat.
Read moreFunding for patients who require a follow-up appointment following HbA1c retest by Awanui Labs.
This funding ends on 28 February 2026
A guide for clinical management of type 2 diabetes, to support nurses at all levels to develop their knowledge and clinical reasoning in diabetes care.