Quetiapine Shortage UK 2026

Current supply status and alternatives for Quetiapine

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).

Quetiapine 50mg, 150mg, 200mg, 300mg and 400mg modified-release tablets

Limited supply

Expected: no date given

Affected by supply constraints.

The notice says

There are supply constraints affecting quetiapine 50mg, 150mg, 200mg, 300mg and 400mg modified-release tablets (see supply summary table in Supporting information).
Quetiapine immediate release tablets remain available and can support the increased demand.In plain English: There's enough stock if people are switched to it.
Where these are not suitable, unlicensed supplies of quetiapine modified-release tablets may be sourced, lead times vary.

From the official notice: DHSC MSN/2025/006, issued 10th February 2025.

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

Track Quetiapine

We'll email you only when this medicine's status actually changes — including when its official shortage notice ends. Most weeks that's nothing, and that's good news. Your first 5 tracked medicines are free.

Nearby pharmacies to call about Quetiapine

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 Quetiapine

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.
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).

Quetiapine is used for treating schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and severe depression alongside other medicines (source: NHS medicines A to Z). Official DHSC / NHSBSA data list an active shortage notification for Quetiapine 50mg, 150mg, 200mg, 300mg and 400mg modified-release tablets. Other forms of this medicine are not named in it — details above.

Possible Alternatives

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

olanzapine
aripiprazole
risperidone

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
If your pharmacy can't supply it, speak to your GP or prescriber
Try other local pharmacies who may have different stock
Sign up for MediWatch alerts to track this shortage

⚠️ 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 Quetiapine in shortage in the UK in 2026?

Yes — official DHSC / NHSBSA data list an active shortage notification for Quetiapine 50mg, 150mg, 200mg, 300mg and 400mg modified-release tablets. Other forms of Quetiapine are not named in it. Sign up for MediWatch alerts to be notified of any changes.

What is Quetiapine used for?

Quetiapine is commonly prescribed in the UK for treating schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and severe depression alongside other medicines. It is dispensed through NHS pharmacies across the country.

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

Your GP may consider alternatives including olanzapine, aripiprazole, risperidone. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before switching medications.

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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.