Named Patient Supply, also known as 'Specials', describes the provision of unlicensed medicines where a patient has a special need which cannot be fulfilled through traditional prescription.

Masters has over 20 years experience of managing patient and physician needs in this area, which may arise due to the following situations:

• A special requirement for a medicine awaiting a license.

• A licensed medicine is available, but is not suitable for the patient.

• A previously prescribed product has been discontinued.

• Supply chain problems with a licensed product.

• The medicine is still undergoing clinical trials.

• The product is used to treat a rare disorder, often classified as an orphan drug.

In managing a Named Patient Supply program, Masters implements detailed and proven Standard Operating Procedures to ensure that the responsibilities and liabilities of such a program are strictly observed.

Records are kept of the name of the product, its specification, prescriber’s name, manufacturer, date of purchase, batch number and expiration date. This enables Masters to manage traceability and counterfeit concerns, whilst also observing Pharmacovigilance – the detection, assessment and prevention of adverse effects.

Masters can assist product manufacturers to manage global demand when a product is registered in certain territories, but awaiting registration in others. In addition, Masters can provide the manufacturer with pre-launch market intelligence, which can increase a product’s commercial potential.