Source data checked 13 November 2026, 17:18 UTC
active shortage noticesEvery morning we read the official UK shortage notices, explain them simply, and email you if your medicine is affected. Free.
How MediWatch works
Shown with a real example: the notice for ramipril capsules of 7 September 2026.
The notice
When a medicine runs short, the Department of Health and Social Care publishes a supply notice. It may also issue a Serious Shortage Protocol, which the NHS Business Services Authority publishes. Both are written for pharmacists, not for you.
Plain English
What's short, until when, and what you can do today. We keep the official wording next to ours, with a link to the source.
1.25mg, 2.5mg, 5mg and 10mg
in limited supply until the end of October 2026
Stock is limited until the end of October 2026.
tablets remain available but cannot support uplift in demand
Ramipril tablets are still available, but there isn't extra stock for people switching to them.
routine switching is not recommended
Prescribers are advised not to switch people to similar medicines as a routine.
The alert
Track up to 5 medicines, free. We email you when a new shortage notice names one of them, and again when it's back. Shortages move slowly, so weeks can pass with no news. That's normal.
Your pharmacy
Tell us the medicine and your postcode to see NHS pharmacies near you, with phone numbers. We can't see what's on their shelves, so call before you go.
Is there a Serious Shortage Protocol? Your pharmacist may supply your medicine differently from your prescription, but only in the way the protocol sets out, for example one month's supply at a time. Ask what yours allows. Out of medicine and your pharmacy is closed? Call NHS 111.
Right now
Live from the official notices.
Shortage out of stock, or an NHS protocol is active Limited supply some stock, but less than needed May be resolved end date passed, awaiting confirmation
Patient testimonials
Real experiences from people using MediWatch to stay ahead of medicine shortages.
“My ADHD medication has been hit by shortages three times this year. MediWatch warned me each time, weeks before my pharmacy knew. I switched to a generic early and never missed a dose.”
“MediWatch's alerts helped me plan ahead when my blood pressure medication faced a shortage. My pharmacist was impressed I already knew.”
“MediWatch alerted me about the Sertraline shortage before it affected my area. I had two weeks to work with my GP on finding an alternative. That peace of mind is priceless.”
“I manage medications for my elderly mother — three different prescriptions. MediWatch alerts me the moment any of them face supply issues, so I can speak to her GP before it becomes a crisis.”
“Since starting on new epilepsy medication, I live in fear of shortages. MediWatch gives me early warning so I can plan ahead with my pharmacist.”
Tracking up to 5 medicines costs nothing. There's nothing to buy.
DHSC, NHSBSA and MHRA. Every answer links to the original notice.
MediWatch is not a clinical service. Your pharmacist or GP knows your history.
One email when a shortage notice names it, and one when it's back. Nothing else.
Your alert is for . If this is your first alert, we've sent a link to : click it to confirm.