Medicine shortages & alternatives

There are several reasons why a medicine may become hard to get hold of. Sometimes there are problems with the supply chain, such as delays in deliveries or shortages of raw ingredients. Manufacturing issues like production delays or factory closures can also play a part. In other cases, changes in regulations or safety checks mean a medicine cannot be supplied until more reviews are carried out.

Not all shortages have the same impact. Some are minor and only affect a certain pack size or strength, while others are more serious and may leave very few alternatives.

1. Low-level shortages usually mean that a quick switch to another pack or strength is possible

2. Medium-level shortages may require your GP to prescribe a different but similar medicine

3. Critical shortages are the most serious and may mean there are very limited options available

Healthcare professionals classify shortages in this way to make sure patients who need medicines most urgently are prioritised.

The NHS provides updates on medicines currently in short supply through the Medicines Supply Tool. You can also ask your GP or pharmacist directly if you’re unsure. 

If you’re a Pharmacy2U patient, we’ll let you know if your prescription is affected. You can also use our our Medicine Stock Checker to see if your medicine is currently available quickly. As we mentioned before, our pharmacists will explain your options and work with your GP to find a safe and suitable solution. 

If your medicine isn’t available, your pharmacist and GP will look at the best alternatives. This could include:  

• A different strength or form of the same medicine (such as tablets instead of capsules) 

• Another medicine that works in the same way 

• A temporary substitute until your usual medicine is back in stock 

At Pharmacy2U, any change is reviewed by a qualified pharmacist and approved by your GP before being dispensed. This gives you peace of mind that your treatment is still safe and effective. 

It’s a good idea to order your repeat prescriptions early using our service, so there’s time to check stock and make changes if needed. If your medicine is running low or unavailable, our pharmacists will contact your GP to discuss alternatives on your behalf. 

You don’t need to chase updates yourself; we’ll keep you informed with tracking and delivery updates so you know when to expect your medicine. 

Don’t stop taking your medicine without medical advice.

Most of the time, your pharmacist can handle shortages for you. However, you should speak to your GP if you’re experiencing side effects from a new medicine, you’re worried about missing doses, or you haven’t received updates and are running very low on your prescription. Your GP will make the final decision about your prescription and will work with us to keep your treatment on track.

If you are switched to a suitable NHS alternative, you won’t pay more than the standard NHS prescription charge. The cost is the same whether you receive your usual medicine or an approved substitute. 

Some people qualify for free NHS prescriptions, depending on age, income, or certain health conditions. If you pay for several prescriptions each month, you may also save money with a prescription prepayment certificate (PPC), which allows unlimited prescriptions for a set fee.