✅ No active shortage notification. As of March 2026, dapagliflozin is not listed in DHSC or NHS England shortage notifications. Supply is expected to be normal across UK pharmacies.
Dapagliflozin (brand name Forxiga) is one of the most widely prescribed SGLT2 inhibitors in the UK. With over 2 million prescriptions dispensed annually, any supply disruption could affect thousands of patients managing diabetes, heart failure, and kidney disease.
What Is Dapagliflozin?
Dapagliflozin belongs to a class of medicines called sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. It works by helping your kidneys remove excess glucose from your blood through urine.
It is prescribed for:
- Type 2 diabetes — to help control blood sugar levels when diet and exercise alone are not enough
- Heart failure — to reduce the risk of hospitalisation and cardiovascular death (with reduced ejection fraction)
- Chronic kidney disease — to slow progression and reduce risk of kidney failure
The brand name in the UK is Forxiga, manufactured by AstraZeneca. Generic dapagliflozin tablets are also available.
Dapagliflozin Supply History in the UK
While dapagliflozin has not faced major prolonged shortages, SGLT2 inhibitors as a class have experienced intermittent supply pressures due to surging demand. The growing evidence base for heart failure and kidney disease indications has significantly increased prescribing volumes since 2022.
| Period | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| March 2026 | ✅ Available | No active shortage notifications |
| Q4 2025 | ✅ Available | Stable supply reported |
| Q2-Q3 2025 | ⚠️ Intermittent | Some pharmacies reported delayed deliveries of generic versions |
| 2024 | ✅ Available | Full supply across branded and generic |
What to Do If You Can't Get Dapagliflozin
Even without a national shortage, individual pharmacies may have temporary stock issues. Here's what to do:
- Ask your pharmacist to check alternative suppliers or nearby branches
- Try other local pharmacies — use the NHS pharmacy finder
- Ask your GP about empagliflozin (Jardiance) as a therapeutic alternative in the same SGLT2 class
- Never stop taking diabetes or heart failure medication without medical advice
- Order repeat prescriptions 7-10 days before running out to allow time for sourcing
Therapeutic Alternatives to Dapagliflozin
If dapagliflozin is unavailable, your GP may consider these alternatives (always consult before switching):
| Medicine | Class | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Empagliflozin (Jardiance) | SGLT2 inhibitor | Same drug class, similar efficacy |
| Canagliflozin (Invokana) | SGLT2 inhibitor | Alternative SGLT2 option |
| Metformin | Biguanide | First-line diabetes treatment (different mechanism) |
| Semaglutide (Ozempic) | GLP-1 agonist | Injectable, also has cardiovascular benefits |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a dapagliflozin shortage in the UK in 2026?
As of March 2026, dapagliflozin (brand name Forxiga) does not have an active shortage notification from DHSC or NHS England. However, individual pharmacies may experience intermittent stock issues. Sign up for MediWatch alerts to be notified of any changes.
What is dapagliflozin used for?
Dapagliflozin is an SGLT2 inhibitor prescribed for type 2 diabetes, heart failure (with reduced ejection fraction), and chronic kidney disease. It works by helping the kidneys remove glucose through urine. Brand name: Forxiga.
Is Forxiga the same as dapagliflozin?
Yes. Forxiga is the brand name for dapagliflozin, manufactured by AstraZeneca. Generic dapagliflozin is also available from other manufacturers. Both contain the same active ingredient.
Can I switch from dapagliflozin to empagliflozin?
Empagliflozin (Jardiance) is in the same drug class (SGLT2 inhibitors) and your GP may consider it as an alternative. However, never switch medications without consulting your doctor first.
What should I do if I can't get dapagliflozin?
Ask your pharmacist to check alternative suppliers, try other local pharmacies, and speak to your GP about alternatives. Never stop taking your medication without medical advice.
As of March 2026, Dapagliflozin does not have an active shortage notification from DHSC or NHS England. Supply situations can change rapidly — sign up for free MediWatch alerts to be notified immediately 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.
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Data sourced from DHSC and NHS England. Updated daily.