Current Shortage Status
These notices are no longer active in official DHSC / NHSBSA data. The wording below is what they said when issued.
Mesalazine (Asacol® ) 400mg MR gastro-resistant tablets
medium DHSC MSNDepartment of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has issued a medicine supply notification for Mesalazine (Asacol®) 400mg MR gastro-resistant tablets …
⚠️ Resolution date passed — supply status unconfirmed. Check with your pharmacist.
Possible Alternatives
Your GP may consider the following alternatives (always consult before switching):
- sulfasalazine
- balsalazide
- olsalazine
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 Mesalazine in shortage in the UK in 2026?
No current notice — official DHSC / NHSBSA data have no active shortage notification for Mesalazine now. The most recent: on 3 March 2026 there was 1 active shortage notification for Mesalazine in the UK, issued by DHSC or NHSBSA. Sign up for MediWatch alerts to be notified of any changes.
What is Mesalazine used for?
Mesalazine is commonly prescribed in the UK for treating ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. It is dispensed through NHS pharmacies across the country.
What should I do if I can't get Mesalazine 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 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 Mesalazine?
Your GP may consider alternatives including sulfasalazine, balsalazide, olsalazine. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before switching medications.
As of March 2026, Mesalazine does not have an active shortage notification from DHSC or NHSBSA. Supply situations can change rapidly — search MediWatch free any time to check if this changes.
Note: This medicine had 1 previous shortage notification that has 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mesalazine (Asacol® ) 400mg MR gastro-resistant tablets | DHSC MSN | 2024-04-25 | Resolved |
Data sourced from DHSC Medicine Supply Notifications and NHSBSA Serious Shortage Protocols. Last verified: March 2026. See our data sources and editorial policy for full methodology.
Page last updated: 5 November 2026. Data checked daily.