Italy initiates regional meetings to manage immunoglobulin supply

A series of regional meetings has been organized in Italy to address the management and responsible use of immunoglobulins, which are essential plasma-derived drugs used to treat immunodeficiencies, neurological conditions, and autoimmune diseases.

Between 2014 and 2023, the demand for plasma-derived medicines in Italy grew by approximately 57%, representing an average annual increase of 5%. This rising demand highlights the need for sustainable resource management and the availability of effective therapeutic alternatives to ensure immunoglobulins remain available for cases where they are irreplaceable.

The initiative, co-created by Cencora and Cittadinanzattiva with support from argenx, will consist of three regional appointments. These discussions aim to produce a Policy Paper and will culminate in a national event in Rome by the end of 2026. Cittadinanzattiva emphasizes the importance of addressing structural shortages and regional disparities in self-sufficiency to ensure equitable access and therapeutic continuity for patients with rare and autoimmune diseases.