Fluoxetine Shortage UK 2026

Current supply status and alternatives for Fluoxetine

Updated 27 March 2026 from official DHSC & NHS data
Fluoxetine is used for treating depression, OCD, bulimia, and panic disorder. There are currently 7 active shortages affecting this medication in the UK.

Current Shortage Status

Fluoxetine 40mg capsules

Serious Shortage NHSBSA SSP

Serious Shortage Protocol active for Fluoxetine 40mg capsules (PDF:139KB). Pharmacists may supply alternatives without GP referral.

⚠️ Resolution date passed — supply status unconfirmed. Check with your pharmacist.

Fluoxetine 30mg capsules

Serious Shortage NHSBSA SSP

Serious Shortage Protocol active for Fluoxetine 30mg capsules (PDF:144KB). Pharmacists may supply alternatives without GP referral.

⚠️ Resolution date passed — supply status unconfirmed. Check with your pharmacist.

Fluoxetine 40mg capsules

Serious Shortage NHSBSA SSP

Serious Shortage Protocol active for Fluoxetine 40mg capsules (PDF:135KB). Pharmacists may supply alternatives without GP referral.

⚠️ Resolution date passed — supply status unconfirmed. Check with your pharmacist.

Fluoxetine 10mg tablets

Serious Shortage NHSBSA SSP

Serious Shortage Protocol active for Fluoxetine 10mg tablets (PDF:134KB). Pharmacists may supply alternatives without GP referral.

⚠️ Resolution date passed — supply status unconfirmed. Check with your pharmacist.

Fluoxetine 40mg capsules

Serious Shortage NHSBSA SSP

Serious Shortage Protocol active for Fluoxetine 40mg capsules (PDF:131KB). Pharmacists may supply alternatives without GP referral.

⚠️ Resolution date passed — supply status unconfirmed. Check with your pharmacist.

Fluoxetine 30mg capsules

Serious Shortage NHSBSA SSP

Serious Shortage Protocol active for Fluoxetine 30mg capsules (PDF:124KB). Pharmacists may supply alternatives without GP referral.

⚠️ Resolution date passed — supply status unconfirmed. Check with your pharmacist.

Fluoxetine 10mg capsules

Serious Shortage NHSBSA SSP

Serious Shortage Protocol active for Fluoxetine 10mg capsules (PDF:151KB). Pharmacists may supply alternatives without GP referral.

⚠️ Resolution date passed — supply status unconfirmed. Check with your pharmacist.

Possible Alternatives

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

What to Do If You're Affected

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Fluoxetine in shortage in the UK in 2026?

Yes — as of 27 March 2026, there are 7 active shortage notifications for Fluoxetine in the UK, issued by DHSC or NHSBSA. Sign up for MediWatch alerts to be notified of any changes.

What is Fluoxetine used for?

Fluoxetine is commonly prescribed in the UK for treating depression, OCD, bulimia, and panic disorder. It is dispensed through NHS pharmacies across the country.

What should I do if I can't get Fluoxetine 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 Fluoxetine?

Your GP may consider alternatives including sertraline, citalopram, escitalopram. 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: 27 March 2026. Data checked daily.