Access to Chagas Disease Medicines in Spain: Important information for healthcare professionals

The Chagas Global Coalition provides an update on access to medicines for the treatment of Chagas disease in Spain. The procedures for obtaining each medicine are as follows:

Benznidazole (Abarax): It is undergoing regulatory registration, with authorisation expected sometime in 2027. In the meantime, it can be requested through the procedure for obtaining medicines from abroad (medicación extranjera), provided that the appropriate justification is submitted.

Nifurtimox (Lampit): It is authorised and funded by Spain’s National Health System. It is subject to hospital prescription.

Important: At present, benznidazole can only be requested with appropriate clinical justification.

The Spanish Agency for Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS) has confirmed that this medicine may be requested when warranted by a patient’s clinical circumstances. Physicians who consider this necessary must attach a brief medical report justifying the request.

Requests are processed through the established procedures for medicines in special situations, usually via the hospital pharmacy service.

Having access to both treatment options is essential to ensure individualised and safe treatment for people with Chagas disease and the appropriate clinical management of potential adverse reactions or other contraindications.

For further information on access to benznidazole:

benznidazol@mundosano.org / Tel. +34 91 650 99 43

Please share this information with healthcare professionals who care for people with Chagas disease.