Is Venlafaxine in Shortage?

Current supply status and alternatives for Venlafaxine

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.

Venlafaxine 75mg immediate-release tablets

Shortage

Expected: November 2026

Out of stock until November 2026.

The notice says

Venlafaxine 75mg immediate release (IR) tablets are out of stock until November 2026
Venlafaxine 150mg modified release (MR) capsules remain available and can support increased demand.In plain English: There's enough stock if people are switched to it.
Venlafaxine 37.5mg and 75mg MR capsules remain available and can support a partial uplift in demand.In plain English: There's some extra stock, but not enough if everyone is switched to it.
Venlafaxine 75mg MR tablets remain available and can support a partial uplift in demand.In plain English: There's some extra stock, but not enough if everyone is switched to it.
Venlafaxine 37.5mg IR tablets remain available but cannot support an uplift in demand.In plain English: There isn't extra stock for people switching to it.

From the official notice: DHSC MSN/2026/040, issued 26 August 2026.

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

Track Venlafaxine

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Nearby pharmacies to call about Venlafaxine

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 Venlafaxine

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).

Venlafaxine is used for treating depression and generalised anxiety disorder (source: NHS medicines A to Z). Official DHSC / NHSBSA data list an active shortage notification for Venlafaxine 75mg immediate-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):

duloxetine
sertraline
mirtazapine

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 Venlafaxine in shortage in the UK in 2026?

Yes — official DHSC / NHSBSA data list an active shortage notification for Venlafaxine 75mg immediate-release tablets. Other forms of Venlafaxine are not named in it. Sign up for MediWatch alerts to be notified of any changes.

What is Venlafaxine used for?

Venlafaxine is commonly prescribed in the UK for treating depression and generalised anxiety disorder. It is dispensed through NHS pharmacies across the country.

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

Your GP may consider alternatives including duloxetine, sertraline, mirtazapine. 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.