MediWatch UK aggregates medicine shortage data exclusively from trusted, official sources. We never use unverified reports or social media — every shortage listed on our platform has been confirmed by a government or NHS body.
🏛️ DHSC — Medicine Supply Notifications (CPE)
The Department of Health and Social Care publishes Medicine Supply Notifications through the Community Pharmacy England (CPE) network. These notifications cover supply disruptions, expected resolution dates, and recommended alternatives for community pharmacy.
- Covers prescription medicines, OTC medicines, and medical devices
- Includes severity levels and expected resolution dates
- Updated as new supply issues are identified
🏥 NHSBSA — Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs)
The NHS Business Services Authority manages Serious Shortage Protocols, which are issued by the Department of Health and Social Care. SSPs let pharmacists supply a medicine differently from the prescription, without a new one, during a serious shortage, but only in the way each protocol sets out: some allow a named alternative or a different strength or form, others only a limited quantity.
- Legally binding protocols that enable pharmacists to act
- Issued only for the most significant shortages
- Set out exactly what the pharmacist may supply: a named alternative, a different strength or form, or a limited quantity
📊 How We Process Data
Our automated system checks these sources daily at 8am UTC. New shortages are categorised by medicine type, severity tier, and expected resolution. Subscribers who track affected medications receive immediate email alerts.
Data Accuracy
We take data accuracy seriously. Our system cross-references multiple official sources and includes direct links to the original government publications for every shortage. If you notice any discrepancy, please contact us.
Update Frequency
MediWatch checks for new shortage notifications once daily. Government sources typically update on weekdays during business hours, though urgent notifications may be published at any time.