Medicines shortages are an increasing challenge across the NHS. This page provides links to national advice, local guidance and supporting resources to help healthcare professionals manage shortages safely and effectively.

Resources to support medication shortages

Please note access to some of these resources require registration to access the information or receive notification:

• Specialist Pharmacy Service (SPS) Medicines Supply tool: The tool provides latest information on supply issues, actions to take, alternatives to use, and expected resolution date (SPS login required)
• NHSBSA Serious shortage protocols
• MHRA Alerts, recalls and safety information: All past MHRA Alerts, recalls and safety information can be accessed here
• MHRA Central Alerting system: The Central Alerting System (CAS) is a web-based cascading system for issuing patient safety alerts, important public health messages and other safety critical information and guidance to the NHS and others, including independent providers of health and social care.
• Guiding principles to support Primary Care (Community Pharmacies and GP Practices) in managing medicines supply shortages

Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT) shortage

• Managing Medicine Shortages: Imported Creon® Alternative – Pangrol®
• Pangrol PIL – 10,000
• Pangrol PIL – 25,000
• PERT letter for healthcare professionals
• PERT letter to patient
• Position Statement: PERT Shortage – HCP, Patients and Dietician flowchart
• SEL Briefing document for PERT shortages

Diabetes shortage

• Discontinuation of NovoRapid® (insulin aspart) FlexTouch®100units/ml solution for injection 3ml pre-filled pens
• Supply disruption of Fiasp® (insulin aspart) FlexTouch® 100units/ml solution for injection 3ml pre-filled pens
• Supply disruption of Tresiba® (insulin degludec) FlexTouch® 100units/ml solution for injection 3ml pre-filled pens