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Table 2 Examples of use on a named patient basis

From: Expanded Access Programme: looking for a common definition

The licensed form of a drug has been discontinued can be prescribed on a named patient basis as it does not have a license

The product is awaiting a license but is licensed elsewhere in the world

There is a local shortage or supply chain problems for an essential medication

Patients who have taken part in a clinical trial which has now ceased can still be prescribed the ‘trial’ medication on a named patient basis if it has been achieving good results

There is a clinical need for an agent which is still in clinical trials and the patient is not eligible for the trial, but it is felt they may benefit from the drug

Specials prepared in a hospital pharmacy for individual patients, because these items do not exist in a ready-made form