Sodium valproate Shortage UK 2026

Current supply status and alternatives for Sodium valproate

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).

Sodium valproate (Epilim Chronosphere®) 50mg, 250mg, and 500mg modified-release granules sachets sugar free

Shortage

Expected: see the official wording

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

The notice says

Sodium valproate (Epilim Chronosphere®) 250mg modified-release granules sachets sugar free will be out of stock from early July 2026 until early January 2027.
Sodium valproate (Epilim Chronosphere®) 100mg modified-release granules sachets sugar free remains available but cannot support an uplift in demand.In plain English: There isn't extra stock for people switching to it.
Sodium valproate (Epilim®) 200mg/5ml syrup remain available but cannot support an uplift in demand.In plain English: There isn't extra stock for people switching to it.

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/2026/030, issued 07 July 2026.

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

Track Sodium valproate

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 Sodium valproate

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 Sodium valproate

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).

Sodium valproate is used for various medical conditions. Official DHSC / NHSBSA data list an active shortage notification for Sodium valproate (Epilim Chronosphere® ) 50mg, 250mg, and 500mg modified-release granules sachets sugar free. Other forms of this medicine are not named in it — details above.

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 Sodium valproate in shortage in the UK in 2026?

Yes — official DHSC / NHSBSA data list an active shortage notification for Sodium valproate (Epilim Chronosphere® ) 50mg, 250mg, and 500mg modified-release granules sachets sugar free. Other forms of Sodium valproate are not named in it. Sign up for MediWatch alerts to be notified of any changes.

What is Sodium valproate used for?

Sodium valproate is commonly prescribed in the UK for various medical conditions. It is dispensed through NHS pharmacies across the country.

What should I do if I can't get Sodium valproate 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.

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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.