✅ No current shortage reported. Morphine is not currently listed in DHSC or NHS England shortage notifications. Supply is expected to be normal across UK pharmacies.
About Morphine
Morphine is one of the most commonly prescribed medicines in the UK. It is primarily used for severe pain.
Category: Pain
What to Do If You Can't Get Morphine
Even without a national shortage, individual pharmacies may occasionally have stock issues. If this happens:
- 1. Ask your pharmacist to check other suppliers or nearby branches
- 2. Try alternative pharmacies in your area
- 3. Contact your GP if the issue persists
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Morphine in shortage in the UK?
Based on the latest DHSC and NHS England data, Morphine does not currently have an active shortage notification. Supply situations can change — sign up for MediWatch alerts to be notified immediately if this changes.
What is Morphine used for?
Morphine is commonly prescribed in the UK for severe pain. It is one of the most widely prescribed medicines in the NHS.
What should I do if I can't get Morphine?
If your pharmacy cannot supply Morphine, ask them to check alternative suppliers. Your GP may also prescribe a suitable therapeutic alternative.
As of March 2026, Morphine has 1 active shortage notification from official DHSC/NHS England data. No confirmed resolution date has been announced.
Source: DHSC Medicine Supply Notification · Issued: 23 December 2025
Official Alternatives & Guidance
- Morphine sulfate injection has been identified by clinical experts as the first-line alternative opioid.
Source: Official DHSC/NHS England alternative guidance
⚠️ 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apomorphine hydrochloride (APO-go® PFS) 50mg/10ml solution f | DHSC MSN | 2025-01-09 | 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.
Related Medicines (Pain)
Paracetamol
Pain relief and fever →
Ibuprofen
Pain, inflammation and fever →
Co-codamol
Moderate pain relief →
Naproxen
Pain and inflammation →
Codeine
Pain relief and cough →
Aspirin
Pain relief and blood thinning →
Helpful Guides
What to Do When Out of Stock
Step-by-step guide →
How NHS Shortages Work
Understanding the system →
Your Rights
When prescriptions unavailable →
Source data checked 2 July 2026, 06:17 UTC
Data sourced from DHSC and NHS England. Updated daily.