Current supply status and alternatives for Somatropin
Source data checked 12 November 2026, 06:18 UTC
Shortage
Active shortage affecting some presentations — official DHSC / NHSBSA data list a current shortage for: Genotropin® (somatropin) 5.3 mg and 12 mg powder and solvent for solution for injection (MSN/2025/072) (official data last checked 12 November 2026, 06:18 UTC). Other forms of Somatropin may not be affected — check with your pharmacy before travelling.
Genotropin® (somatropin) 5.3 mg and 12 mg powder and solvent for solution for injection
Shortage
Expected: see the official wording
The notice says
The reusable Pen device for Genotropin® (somatropin) 5.3 mg and 12 mg powder and solvent for solution for injection will be out of stock from the end of January 2026 until at least early 2027.
Each reusable Pen has a battery life of approximately two years.
Patients whose battery life expires during the out-of-stock period will need to be switched to an alternative device.
Homecare patients currently using this pen device will be reviewed by their homecare provider to determine whether a switch is required during the shortage, and will continue to receive supplies from their homecare provider as appropriate.
New patients should not be initiated on the Genotropin® Pen device, and new homecare referrals will not be accepted until the supply issue has resolved.
Only the reuseable pen device is affected.
From the official notice: DHSC MSN/2025/072, issued 23 December 2025.
Don't stop or change your medicine on your own. Ask your pharmacist or GP.
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 Somatropin
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 Somatropin
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 Somatropin
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.
Somatropin is used for various medical conditions. Official DHSC / NHSBSA data list an active shortage notification for Genotropin® (somatropin) 5.3 mg and 12 mg powder and solvent for solution for injection. 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
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 Somatropin in shortage in the UK in 2026?
Official DHSC / NHSBSA data list an active shortage notification for Genotropin® (somatropin) 5.3 mg and 12 mg powder and solvent for solution for injection. Other forms of Somatropin are not named in it. Sign up for MediWatch alerts to be notified of any changes.
What is Somatropin used for?
Somatropin 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 Somatropin 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.
Data sources: DHSC Medicine Supply Notifications · NHSBSA Serious Shortage Protocols · MHRA alerts
Page last updated: 1 November 2026. Data checked daily.
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