Why Do Medicine Shortages Happen?
There are many causes of medicine shortages in the UK:
- Manufacturing problems — factory shutdowns, quality issues, or raw material shortages
- Global demand spikes — like during COVID-19 or the GLP-1 agonist surge
- Regulatory changes — post-Brexit import complications
- Commercial decisions — companies discontinuing low-profit products
- Supply chain disruptions — shipping delays, warehouse issues
How Does the DHSC Respond?
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) issues Medicine Supply Notifications (MSNs) when they become aware of a shortage. These are rated by severity from Tier 1 (minor) to Tier 4 (critical).
What Are Serious Shortage Protocols?
Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs) are issued by the Department of Health and Social Care, published by the NHSBSA, and let pharmacists supply a medicine differently from the prescription without going back to the prescriber, but only as each protocol sets out: a named alternative, a different strength or form, or a limited quantity. This speeds up access for patients and reduces GP workload.
Each SSP specifies exactly what a pharmacist can supply, ensuring patient safety. Currently, there are multiple active SSPs in the UK.
How MediWatch Helps
We monitor both DHSC MSNs and NHSBSA SSPs daily, combining them into a single, patient-friendly service. Instead of trawling government websites, you get a simple email alert when your medications are affected.
Don't get caught off guard
Free email alerts if a medicine you take goes into short supply. Alerts are rare — that's good news.
Search shortages free →Data sources: DHSC Medicine Supply Notifications · NHSBSA Serious Shortage Protocols · MHRA alerts
MediWatch is not medical advice. Always follow your prescription label and ask a pharmacist, GP, specialist, NHS 111, or emergency services if you are unsure or unwell. Data checked daily.