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Nifedipine Shortage UK 2026

Current supply status and alternatives for Nifedipine

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). Resolution estimate needs recheck — supply status is not confirmed. Check with your pharmacist.

Nifedipine 10mg, 20mg, 30mg and 60mg modified-release tablets

Shortage

Expected: see the official wording

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

The notice says

  • Tensipine® MR 10 and 20 tablets will be out of stock from early August 2026 and early October 2026 respectively.
  • The resupply dates for both strengths are to be confirmed.
  • Dexipress® MR 20mg tablets are currently out of stock until November 2026.
  • Adalat® LA 30 tablets are out of stock from late July 2026 until late November 2026.
  • Adanif® XL 30mg and 60mg tablets have been discontinued.

Some dates in this notice have passed, so those lines are not shown. We are waiting for an official update.

From the official notice: DHSC MSN/2026/033, issued 23 July 2026.

Nifedipine (Fortipine® LA) 40mg modified-release tablets

Shortage

Expected: no date given

Out of stock.

The notice says

  • Nifedipine (Fortipine® LA) 40mg modified-release tablets are currently out of stock.
  • The resupply date is yet to be confirmed.In plain English: There is no date yet for new stock.
  • Other brands of nifedipine 20mg modified-release tablets remain available and can support increased demand.In plain English: There's enough stock if people are switched to it.
  • Nifedipine (Coracten® SR) 20mg modified-release capsules remain available and can support increased demand.In plain English: There's enough stock if people are switched to it.

From the official notice: DHSC MSN/2025/064, issued 8th December 2025.

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

Track Nifedipine

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Nearby pharmacies to call about Nifedipine

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 Nifedipine

  1. Speak to your pharmacist. They may be able to order it from another wholesaler, or suggest a different strength or form.
  2. Ask your GP or prescriber about an alternative if it can't be sourced. Don't stop or switch medicine on your own.
  3. 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).
Home › Shortages › blood-pressure › Nifedipine
⚠️ Our data shows national supply status from DHSC, NHSBSA and MHRA. Your local pharmacy may still be temporarily out of stock due to delivery schedules or local demand. Always check with your pharmacist.
Nifedipine is used for treating high blood pressure and angina (source: NHS medicines A to Z). Official DHSC / NHSBSA data list 2 active shortage notifications for Nifedipine 10mg, 20mg, 30mg and 60mg modified-release tablets; Nifedipine (Fortipine® LA) 40mg modified-release tablets. Other forms of this medicine are not named in them — details above.

Possible Alternatives

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

What to Do If You're Affected

⚠️ 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 Nifedipine in shortage in the UK in 2026?

Yes — official DHSC / NHSBSA data list 2 active shortage notifications for Nifedipine 10mg, 20mg, 30mg and 60mg modified-release tablets; Nifedipine (Fortipine® LA) 40mg modified-release tablets. Other forms of Nifedipine are not named in them. Sign up for MediWatch alerts to be notified of any changes.

What is Nifedipine used for?

Nifedipine is commonly prescribed in the UK for treating high blood pressure and angina. It is dispensed through NHS pharmacies across the country.

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

Your GP may consider alternatives including amlodipine, felodipine, diltiazem. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before switching medications.

Related

Alternatives to Nifedipine: what's still availableNeed it today? Emergency supplyNHS 111 emergency supplyCheck stock near youblood-pressure shortagesComplete shortage listWhat to do

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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.