Co-trimoxazole Shortage UK 2026

✅ No current shortage — Co trimoxazole is not in active shortage in official DHSC / NHSBSA data (official data last checked 11 August 2026, 06:17 UTC). The details below describe the most recent shortage on record.

🔔 Track Co trimoxazole

We'll email you only when this medicine's status actually changes — including when it's back in stock. Most weeks that's nothing, and that's good news. Your first 5 tracked medicines are free.

📍 Find Co trimoxazole near you

Enter your postcode to see nearby pharmacy availability leads.

MediWatch does not guarantee live local stock. Call the pharmacy to confirm before travelling, and never stop or change medication without medical advice.

Co-trimoxazole is used for various medical conditions. There is currently 1 active shortage affecting this medication in the UK.

Current Shortage Status

Co-trimoxazole 40mg/200mg/5ml oral suspension sugar free and Co-trimoxazole 80mg/400mg/5ml oral suspension

medium DHSC MSN

Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has issued a medicine supply notification for Co-trimoxazole 40mg/200mg/5ml oral suspension sugar free and Co-trimoxazole 80mg/400mg/5ml oral suspension • C

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 Co-trimoxazole in shortage in the UK in 2026?

Yes — as of 7 June 2026, there is 1 active shortage notification for Co-trimoxazole in the UK, issued by DHSC or NHSBSA. Sign up for MediWatch alerts to be notified of any changes.

What is Co-trimoxazole used for?

Co-trimoxazole 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 Co-trimoxazole 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.

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 →

Reviewed for source alignment: 7 June 2026 · Report an accuracy issue
Data sources: DHSC Medicine Supply Notifications · NHSBSA Serious Shortage Protocols · NHS England
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.