The MediWatch pharmacy stock checker shows whether your medicine has a national shortage notice and lists the NHS pharmacies nearest your postcode to phone. MediWatch does not guarantee live local stock.
Open the pharmacy stock checkerMedicine out of stock? The fast route
Start with the exact medicine details
Before calling pharmacies, check the prescription label or NHS app for the active ingredient, brand, strength, formulation, and quantity. For some medicines, "same drug" is not enough. Modified-release tablets, patches, liquids, injections, and controlled drugs can have different rules.
If you search MediWatch, use the medicine name most likely to be on the box or prescription. You can then open the medicine page for shortage context and use the locator to find nearby pharmacy leads.
Use a pharmacy search to build a call list
You can use the MediWatch pharmacy stock checker and the official NHS find a pharmacy service to build a short list of nearby pharmacies.
Do not rely on distance alone. A slightly further pharmacy may have better ordering access, longer opening hours, or a branch network that can check nearby stores.
What to ask when you call
- Do you have this exact medicine, strength, and form available today?
- Can you dispense the full prescription quantity, or only part of it?
- Can you order it for tomorrow or later this week?
- Can another branch in your group check or reserve it?
- If unavailable, should I ask my GP or specialist about an alternative prescription?
When to contact your GP, specialist, or NHS 111
If no pharmacy can supply the medicine and you may run out soon, contact your prescriber. If you urgently need medicine and cannot reach your normal service, NHS 111 has an emergency prescription route for some situations.
Do not split doses, skip doses, switch brands, or use someone else's medicine unless a qualified professional tells you to.
FAQs
Can I ask pharmacies to reserve medicine?
Sometimes, but policies vary. Ask the pharmacy directly and check whether they need the prescription before holding stock.
Should I visit pharmacies in person?
Call first where possible. It saves time and reduces the risk of travelling for stock that has already changed.
Can I use a different pharmacy from my usual one?
Often yes, but some prescriptions, nominations, controlled drugs, and specialist medicines may need extra steps. Ask the pharmacy or prescriber.