Medicine shortage

A medicine shortage occurs when Australian supply is insufficient, or expected to be insufficient, to meet patient demand. It is different from one pharmacy temporarily being out of stock. A shortage may require planning with a pharmacist and prescriber, but it does not mean patients should ration, stockpile or change treatment without advice.

What should I do if my pharmacy cannot supply it?

Ask whether the issue is local stock or a broader shortage and when supply may be available. The pharmacist may be able to discuss another suitable brand or contact the prescriber. An alternative formulation or different treatment may require a new clinical decision.

Tell the pharmacist how much supply remains. Seek advice early where possible rather than waiting until the final dose. Do not visit multiple services with inconsistent histories in an attempt to build extra stock, because that can create safety and continuity problems.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see Therapeutic Goods Administration: Medicine shortages information for consumers.

Can I buy an alternative online?

Avoid unverified sellers or websites offering prescription products without appropriate requirements. Overseas availability does not establish Australian approval, quality or lawful supply. A pharmacist can explain whether a proposed alternative is appropriate and what documentation is needed.

The TGA publishes shortage information for relevant products, but its database does not show every pharmacy's current inventory. A listed resolution date is not a guarantee that stock will be on a particular shelf that day.

What should I ask the prescriber?

Explain the pharmacy's advice, remaining supply and any alternative suggested. Ask whether monitoring or new instructions are needed if treatment changes. Do not split, stretch or substitute doses based on guesswork.

See Doccio's prescription service information for suitable review requests. A doctor decides whether a new prescription is appropriate, and a pharmacy separately determines supply. If interruption could cause harm, seek prompt individual advice rather than waiting for a routine online response.

Where to go next

Read prescription consultations to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.