Cwestiwn ysgrifenedig WQ87562

The supply of medicines is monitored and managed on a UK wide basis.

In previous responses to WQ85054, WQ85055 and WQ85690, I explained the number of prescriptions for HRT in Wales has increased by more than 40% in the last 5 years, and that manufacturers have not kept pace with increasing demand. A range of Serious Shortage Protocols (SSP) for HRT medicines were put in place last year allowing pharmacists to supply clinically appropriate alternative HRT medicines when those prescribed are unavailable without the need for patients to return to their prescriber. The majority of SSPs have now been withdrawn reflecting improved availability of HRT medicines. SSPs remain in place for Estradot patches and Sandrena gel and will do so until the supply disruption is resolved.

With regard to fluoxetine preparations, 20mg dispersible tablets and 20mg/5ml oral solution are in short supply, and 10mg tablets are being discontinued. However, alternative preparations including 10mg and 20mg capsules remain widely available with manufacturers of those preparations able to meet any increased demand as a result of the disruption. An SSP is in place to allow 10mg capsules to be dispensed against prescriptions for 10mg tablets and supplies of oral solution are expected to normalise in March.

Anyone who is having difficulty obtaining any treatment should contact their doctor or pharmacist to discuss what alternatives might be available.