Diamorphine Shortage UK 2026

Current supply status and alternatives for Diamorphine

Source data checked 12 November 2026, 06:18 UTC

Shortage

Active shortage — confirmed in official DHSC / NHSBSA data (official data last checked 12 November 2026, 06:18 UTC).

Diamorphine 5mg, 10mg and 100mg powder for solution for injection ampoules

Shortage

Expected: see the official wording

The details differ by product, strength or date. Check yours in the official wording below.

The notice says

Diamorphine 5 mg and 10 mg powder for solution for injection ampoules are currently out of stock, with no confirmed resupply date.In plain English: There is no date yet for new stock.
Diamorphine 100 mg powder for solution for injection ampoules are expected to become unavailable from early January, with no currently confirmed resupply date.In plain English: There is no date yet for new stock.
Diamorphine 30mg powder for solution for injection ampoules are currently available but are unable to support any increase in demand.In plain English: There isn't extra stock for people switching to it.
Morphine sulfate injection has been identified by clinical experts as the first-line alternative opioid.
Sufficient supplies of morphine sulfate 10mg/ml injection are available from Ethypharm and Hameln to cover the supply gap.

From the official notice: DHSC MSN/2025/071, issued 23 December 2025.

Don't stop or change your medicine on your own. Ask your pharmacist or GP.

Track Diamorphine

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Nearby pharmacies to call about Diamorphine

Enter your postcode to see nearby NHS-registered pharmacies. Stock is not confirmed.

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

Where to get Diamorphine

Speak to your pharmacist. They may be able to order it from another wholesaler, or suggest a different strength or form.
Ask your GP or prescriber about an alternative if it can't be sourced. Don't stop or switch medicine on your own.
Try other pharmacies. Stock varies between pharmacies. Find nearby pharmacies to call or use the NHS Find a pharmacy service (opens in a new tab).

Diamorphine is used for relieving severe pain, such as after surgery or a heart attack or in terminal illness (source: product information (SmPC) on EMC). Official DHSC / NHSBSA data list an active shortage notification for Diamorphine 5mg, 10mg and 100mg powder for solution for injection ampoules. Other forms of this medicine are not named in it — details above.

Possible Alternatives

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

morphine
oxycodone
fentanyl

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 Diamorphine in shortage in the UK in 2026?

Yes — official DHSC / NHSBSA data list an active shortage notification for Diamorphine 5mg, 10mg and 100mg powder for solution for injection ampoules. Other forms of Diamorphine are not named in it. Sign up for MediWatch alerts to be notified of any changes.

What is Diamorphine used for?

Diamorphine is commonly prescribed in the UK for relieving severe pain, such as after surgery or a heart attack or in terminal illness. It is dispensed through NHS pharmacies across the country.

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

What are the alternatives to Diamorphine?

Your GP may consider alternatives including morphine, oxycodone, fentanyl. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before switching medications.

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Generated from official data: 12 November 2026 · Report an accuracy issue
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.