Current Shortage Status
This notice has left the official active list because its resupply estimate passed; recovery has not been confirmed. The wording below is what it said when issued.
Cefixime (Suprax® ) 200mg tablets
medium DHSC MSNIn limited supply until mid-October 2026.
Alternative broad-spectrum antibiotics remain available.
Unlicensed supplies may be sourced, lead times vary.
⚠️ Resolution estimate needs recheck — supply status is not confirmed. Check with your pharmacist.
From the official notice: DHSC MSN/2026/020, issued 30 March 2026.
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
- If your pharmacy can't supply it, speak to your GP or prescriber
- Try other local pharmacies who may have different stock
- Sign up for MediWatch alerts to track this shortage
⚠️ 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cefixime in shortage in the UK in 2026?
Recovery not yet confirmed — on 17 October 2026 there was 1 active shortage notification for Cefixime in the UK, issued by DHSC or NHSBSA. It has since passed the resupply estimate without DHSC / CPE confirming supply is back to normal, so check with your pharmacy. Sign up for MediWatch alerts to be notified of any changes.
What is Cefixime used for?
Cefixime 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 Cefixime from my pharmacy?
Ask your pharmacist whether a Serious Shortage Protocol (SSP) covers it and what that protocol allows: each one sets out exactly what can be supplied. If your pharmacy can't supply it, speak to your GP or prescriber, and don't stop or change your medicine on your own. Try other local pharmacies as stock levels vary by location.
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.