â No current shortage reported. Allopurinol is not currently listed in DHSC or NHS England shortage notifications. Supply is expected to be normal across UK pharmacies.
About Allopurinol
Allopurinol is one of the most commonly prescribed medicines in the UK. It is primarily used for gout prevention.
Category: Musculoskeletal
What to Do If You Can't Get Allopurinol
Even without a national shortage, individual pharmacies may occasionally have stock issues. If this happens:
- 1. Ask your pharmacist to check other suppliers or nearby branches
- 2. Try alternative pharmacies in your area
- 3. Contact your GP if the issue persists
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Allopurinol in shortage in the UK?
Based on the latest DHSC and NHS England data, Allopurinol does not currently have an active shortage notification. Supply situations can change â sign up for MediWatch alerts to be notified immediately if this changes.
What is Allopurinol used for?
Allopurinol is commonly prescribed in the UK for gout prevention. It is one of the most widely prescribed medicines in the NHS.
What should I do if I can't get Allopurinol?
If your pharmacy cannot supply Allopurinol, ask them to check alternative suppliers. Your GP may also prescribe a suitable therapeutic alternative.
As of March 2026, Allopurinol does not have an active shortage notification from DHSC or NHS England. Supply situations can change rapidly â search MediWatch free any time to check if this changes.
⚠️ Important: NHS Listed Medication Safety
Urgency: Do not stop taking your prescribed medication without consulting your doctor, even if supply is disrupted.
What to do: Contact your GP or pharmacist as soon as you become aware of a shortage affecting your medication. The earlier you act, the more options you will have.
Tip: Phone ahead before visiting the pharmacy. Many pharmacies can check stock levels by phone and may be able to order your medication from their wholesaler.
Data sourced from DHSC Medicine Supply Notifications and NHS England Serious Shortage Protocols. Last verified: March 2026. See our data sources and editorial policy for full methodology.
Related Medicines (Musculoskeletal)
Helpful Guides
What to Do When Out of Stock
Step-by-step guide â
How NHS Shortages Work
Understanding the system â
Your Rights
When prescriptions unavailable â
Get Alerted If This Changes
Search Allopurinol's live shortage status free, any time
Check Now Free âSource data checked 26 June 2026, 17:17 UTC
Data sourced from DHSC and NHS England. Updated daily.