Current supply status and alternatives for Norethisterone
Source data checked 12 November 2026, 06:18 UTC
No current notice
No current notice — there is no active shortage notice for Norethisterone in official DHSC / NHSBSA data (official data last checked 12 November 2026, 06:18 UTC). The details below describe the most recent shortage on record. This covers DHSC supply notices for community pharmacies and NHSBSA Serious Shortage Protocols; a supplier stock problem can affect pharmacies before a notice is issued.
Not medical advice. MediWatch reports official UK medicine supply data; it is not a substitute for advice from a pharmacist, GP or prescriber. Do not stop, change or switch a medicine without speaking to them first. If you are unwell, contact NHS 111, or call 999 in an emergency. How we check our information.
Track Norethisterone
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Nearby pharmacies to call about Norethisterone
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 Norethisterone
Speak to your pharmacist. They may be able to order it from another wholesaler, or suggest a different strength or form.
Ask your GP or prescriber about an alternative if it can't be sourced. Don't stop or switch medicine on your own.
⚠️ 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.
Norethisterone is used for treating heavy or painful periods and endometriosis, delaying a period, and contraception (the progestogen-only pill) (sources: product information (SmPC) on EMC 1, product information (SmPC) on EMC 2). There are no active national shortage notifications for this medication in current official data. The most recent shortage on record is shown below.
Current Shortage Status
These notices are no longer active in official DHSC / NHSBSA data. The wording below is what they said when issued.
Norethisterone (Noriday® ) 350microgram tablets
mediumDHSC MSN
Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has issued a medicine supply notification for Norethisterone (Noriday®) 350microgram tablets …
Possible Alternatives
Your GP may consider the following alternatives (always consult before switching):
medroxyprogesterone
desogestrel
other progestogen-only pills
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 Norethisterone in shortage in the UK in 2026?
No current notice — official DHSC / NHSBSA data have no active shortage notification for Norethisterone now. The most recent: on 13 May 2026 there was 1 active shortage notification for Norethisterone in the UK, issued by DHSC or NHSBSA. Sign up for MediWatch alerts to be notified of any changes.
What is Norethisterone used for?
Norethisterone is commonly prescribed in the UK for treating heavy or painful periods and endometriosis, delaying a period, and contraception (the progestogen-only pill). It is dispensed through NHS pharmacies across the country.
What should I do if I can't get Norethisterone 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 Norethisterone?
Your GP may consider alternatives including medroxyprogesterone, desogestrel, other progestogen-only pills. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before switching medications.
Data sources: DHSC Medicine Supply Notifications · NHSBSA Serious Shortage Protocols · MHRA alerts
Page last updated: 5 November 2026. Data checked daily.
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