Key Medicine Shortages – June 2022
Monthly Update
1. Colestipol (Colestid®) orange and plain 5g granule sachets – both preparations have been discontinued. Other bile-acid sequestrants remain available and can support the uplift in demand.
Please refer to the Department of Health & Social Care Medicine Supply Notification on StaffNet for actions required from prescribers in primary and secondary care, and further information on prescribing alternative bile-acid sequestrants.
2. Hydrocortisone Muco-Adhesive Buccal 2.5mg tablets – are out of stock until w/c 5th September 2022. Over-the-counter alternatives, such as oral gels and mouthwashes, remain available. Betamethasone soluble tablets for ‘off-label’ topical use in the treatment of aphthous ulcers remain available.
Please refer to the Department of Health & Social Care Medicine Supply Notification on StaffNet for actions required for clinicians considering treatment for patients presenting with oral ulcers, and clinical information.
3. Methylphenidate XL (Xaggitin®) 18mg, 27mg, 36mg and 54mg tablets – there is an active supply problem with all strengths that is expected to last until mid-July 2022. Please note due to the biphasic release profiles, there may be differences in clinical effect between different versions of methylphenidate modified-release preparations.
Please refer to the NHSGGC Central Prescribing Memorandum on StaffNet for advice to support the management of affected patients.
Why do medicine shortages occur?
Medicine shortages occur for a variety of reasons, including difficulties sourcing raw materials, product recalls for safety reasons, changes to licence holder, and changes to pack sizes.
It is vitally important that medicine shortages are monitored and appropriate actions taken, to minimise impact on patient care.
Where can I find further advice and information on medicine supply problems and shortages?
For the most up-to-date advice and information please refer to Current Medicine Supply Problems and Shortages page on StaffNet.
Published 14/06/2022. Medicines Update blogs are correct at the time of publication.
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