Carbamazepine Shortage UK 2026

Current supply status and alternatives for Carbamazepine

Source data checked 12 May 2026, 17:17 UTC
⚠️ Our data shows national supply status from NHS England and DHSC. Your local pharmacy may still be temporarily out of stock due to delivery schedules or local demand. Always check with your pharmacist.
Carbamazepine is used for treating epilepsy, trigeminal neuralgia, and bipolar disorder. There are currently 2 active shortages affecting this medication in the UK.

Current Shortage Status

Carbamazepine 100mg and 200mg tablets

medium DHSC MSN

Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has issued a medicine supply notification for Carbamazepine 100mg/5ml oral suspension sugar free (Accord) • Carbamazepine 100mg/5ml oral suspension sugar fr

Carbamazepine 100mg/5ml oral suspension sugar free (Accord)

medium DHSC MSN

Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has issued a medicine supply notification for Carbamazepine 100mg/5ml oral suspension sugar free (Accord) • Carbamazepine 100mg/5ml oral suspension sugar fr

Possible Alternatives

Your GP may consider the following alternatives (always consult before switching):

What to Do If You're Affected

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Carbamazepine in shortage in the UK in 2026?

Yes — as of 13 May 2026, there are 2 active shortage notifications for Carbamazepine in the UK, issued by DHSC or NHSBSA. Sign up for MediWatch alerts to be notified of any changes.

What is Carbamazepine used for?

Carbamazepine is commonly prescribed in the UK for treating epilepsy, trigeminal neuralgia, and bipolar disorder. It is dispensed through NHS pharmacies across the country.

What should I do if I can't get Carbamazepine 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.

What are the alternatives to Carbamazepine?

Your GP may consider alternatives including oxcarbazepine, lamotrigine, sodium valproate. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before switching medications.

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Data sources: DHSC Medicine Supply Notifications · NHSBSA Serious Shortage Protocols · NHS England
Page last updated: 13 May 2026. Data checked daily.