Dear customer,

Following the recent Canadian shortage of Heparin Sodium Injection 5 000 units / 0.5 mL in vials (www.drugshortagescanada.ca), Sterinova would like to bring clarification regarding the source of heparin used in our prefilled syringes. Sterinova does not use crude heparin from China. Our crude heparin is sourced from Europe, North and South America. In addition, it is important to mention that our heparin syringes are manufactured in Canada. This allows us to prioritize Canadian hospitals.

Sterinova closely monitors this situation. Our plan is to ensure that our current customers using our Heparin prefilled syringes are not affected by this shortage. If required, Sterinova will establish an allocation plan to insure that all current customers will have access to supply with no restrictions.

Crude heparin is derived from porcine intestinal mucosa and most of the crude heparin in the world is supplied by China. At the moment, China is facing an epidemic of African swine fever, causing a shortage of pork locally. This virus has already been reported in almost every region of mainland China. At the moment, it is not possible to know when this issue will be resolved. As a result of this epidemic, the offer and demand for heparin active pharmaceutical ingredient is under increased pressure resulting in a steady and steep increase of its price.

Please be assured that we intend to continue to supply our customers with the same level of service and quality during this heparin shortage. We thank you for your support and we remain at your disposal for any questions regarding this topic.

Jean-Philippe Gentès, B. Pharm., MBA
President and Chief Executive Officer