Shortages decision making
Decision making
It is not possible to cover every eventuality, but the five questions below may help you make decisions about managing a medicine shortage.
1. Can the medicine be stopped? (It is no longer required, not essential, or there are non-drug options.)
No Yes ⇨ Stop the medicine if it is safe and appropriate (e.g. consider withdrawal reactions).
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2. Is this a local supply problem? (e.g. one wholesaler out of stock; one pharmacy out of stock.)
No, it's a national shortage Yes ⇨ Obtain from a different supplier; try another pharmacy.
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3. Does DHSC guidance or other Info source above assist you? (NB you must register with the SPS site before you can see DHSC guidance.)
No Yes ⇨ Follow DHSC or other guidance
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4. Can you swap to a different brand or formulation of this medicine? (BNF, MIMS, or eMC may help with options.)
No Yes ⇨ Swap to different brand or formulation, if suitable
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5. The patient may need to switch to a different medicine. Is it your role to do this?
No ⇨ Refer to prescriber Yes ⇨ Our-e-learning below may help you