Memantine Shortage UK 2026

Current supply status and alternatives for Memantine

Updated 3 March 2026 from official DHSC & NHS data
Memantine is used for treating moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease. There are currently 2 active shortages affecting this medication in the UK.

Current Shortage Status

Memantine (Valios® ) 10mg and 20mg orodispersible tablets sugar free

medium DHSC MSN

Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has issued a medicine supply notification for Memantine (Valios®) 10mg and 20mg orodispersible tablets sugar free • Valios® 10mg and 20mg orodispersible tab

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

Memantine (Valios® ) 5mg orodispersible tablets sugar free

medium DHSC MSN

Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has issued a medicine supply notification for Memantine (Valios®) 5mg orodispersible tablets sugar free • Memantine (Valios®) 5mg orodispersible tablets sug

⚠️ 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 Memantine in shortage in the UK in 2026?

Yes — as of 3 March 2026, there are 2 active shortage notifications for Memantine in the UK, issued by DHSC or NHSBSA. Sign up for MediWatch alerts to be notified of any changes.

What is Memantine used for?

Memantine is commonly prescribed in the UK for treating moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease. It is dispensed through NHS pharmacies across the country.

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

Your GP may consider alternatives including donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before switching medications.

No Active Shortage

As of March 2026, Memantine 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.

Note: This medicine had 2 previous shortage notifications that have since been resolved.

⚠️ 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.

Previous Shortage History

Notification Source Date Issued Status
Memantine (Valios® ) 10mg and 20mg orodispersible tablets su DHSC MSN 2024-05-29 Resolved
Memantine (Valios® ) 5mg orodispersible tablets sugar free DHSC MSN 2025-01-28 Resolved

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 sources: DHSC Medicine Supply Notifications · NHSBSA Serious Shortage Protocols · NHS England
Page last updated: 3 March 2026. Data checked daily.