Written question WQ99009

Whilst medicines supply is devolved, where appropriate the UK government takes the lead role on the management of medicines supply and shortages, to ensure NHS patients throughout the UK have equity of access to medicines. To support management of medicines supply issues across the UK we work closely with UK and Devolved Governments, manufacturers, wholesalers, prescribers and pharmacies.

Medicines shortages can occur for a number of reasons, including an increase in demand which exceeds the manufacturer’s capacity to produce a particular medicine; disruption to the supply of raw materials, and problems encountered during the manufacturing process. Research by the Nuffield Trust has also shown that Brexit has had a particularly detrimental impact on both the supply and affordability of medicines.

In the case of propranolol modified release preparations, both manufacturers supplying propranolol to the UK have been experiencing difficulties in their supply chains since end of 2025 and these are expected to continue until August 2026. In the meantime, clinicians have been advised to consider switching patients to immediate release propranolol tablets, or to an alternative treatment option.

A Medicines Shortage Letter was issued to NHS Wales on 11 November informing them of the shortage and to provide clinicians with advice on managing patients affected by it. We will continue to review this guidance as circumstances evolve.

The shortage will affect both the NHS and private supply of propranolol 80mg. Paying privately for treatment, including private prescriptions, is entirely a personal decision for patients and their families – but the aforementioned guidance is designed to ensure that the limited supply of medicines available through the NHS is managed fairly and proportionately. Neither the NHS nor the Welsh Government refunds all, or part, of the costs of private prescriptions.