Atorvastatin Shortage UK 2026

Current supply status and alternatives for Atorvastatin

Updated 26 March 2026 from official DHSC & NHS data

Atorvastatin is used for various medical conditions. There are currently 5 active shortages affecting this medication in the UK.

Current Shortage Status

atorvastatin (Lipitor®)20mg chewable tablets

Serious Shortage NHSBSA SSP

Serious Shortage Protocol active for atorvastatin (Lipitor®)20mg chewable tablets (PDF:150KB). Pharmacists may supply alternatives without GP referral.

⚠️ Resolution date passed — supply status unconfirmed. Check with your pharmacist.

Atorvastatin (Lipitor®) 10mg chewable tablets

Serious Shortage NHSBSA SSP

Serious Shortage Protocol active for Atorvastatin (Lipitor®) 10mg chewable tablets (PDF:145KB). Pharmacists may supply alternatives without GP referral.

⚠️ Resolution date passed — supply status unconfirmed. Check with your pharmacist.

Atorvastatin (Lipitor®) 20mg chewable tablets

Serious Shortage NHSBSA SSP

Serious Shortage Protocol active for Atorvastatin (Lipitor®) 20mg chewable tablets (PDF:122KB). Pharmacists may supply alternatives without GP referral.

⚠️ Resolution date passed — supply status unconfirmed. Check with your pharmacist.

Atorvastatin (Lipitor®) 10mg chewable tablets

Serious Shortage NHSBSA SSP

Serious Shortage Protocol active for Atorvastatin (Lipitor®) 10mg chewable tablets (PDF:123KB). Pharmacists may supply alternatives without GP referral.

⚠️ Resolution date passed — supply status unconfirmed. Check with your pharmacist.

Atorvastatin (Lipitor®) 20mg chewable tablets

Serious Shortage NHSBSA SSP

Serious Shortage Protocol active for Atorvastatin (Lipitor®) 20mg chewable tablets (PDF:211KB). Pharmacists may supply alternatives without GP referral.

⚠️ Resolution date passed — supply status unconfirmed. Check with your pharmacist.

What to Do If You're Affected

Contact your pharmacy as soon as possible — don't wait until you run out
Ask your pharmacist if a Serious Shortage Protocol (SSP) is active
Speak to your GP about prescribing an alternative
Try other local pharmacies who may have different stock
Sign up for MediWatch alerts to track this shortage

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Atorvastatin in shortage in the UK in 2026?

Yes — as of 26 March 2026, there are 5 active shortage notifications for Atorvastatin in the UK, issued by DHSC or NHSBSA. Sign up for MediWatch alerts to be notified of any changes.

What is Atorvastatin used for?

Atorvastatin is commonly prescribed in the UK for various medical conditions. It is dispensed through NHS pharmacies across the country.

What should I do if I can't get Atorvastatin from my pharmacy?

First, ask your pharmacist if a Serious Shortage Protocol (SSP) is active — this may allow them to dispense an alternative without a new prescription. If not, contact your GP who can prescribe a suitable alternative. Try other local pharmacies as stock levels vary by location.

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Data sources: DHSC Medicine Supply Notifications · NHSBSA Serious Shortage Protocols · NHS England
Page last updated: 26 March 2026. Data checked daily.