Shortages and supply disruptions
Understand the actions we take when medicine and medical device shortages happen, and what you can do.
Latest alerts
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Supply constraints will continue until 31 January 2027.
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The acute national shortages of IV fluids have resolved.
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Serious Scarcity Substitution Instrument (SSSI) has lapsed and product is available.
Latest articles
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Health practitioners – how to access medicines during a national shortage
When medicines are in short supply, it can sometimes make patient care more difficult for health practitioners.
We aim to provide clear, timely information to help you access the medicines your patients need during a national medicine shortage. When appropriate, we also make other medicines available so patient care can continue. -
What’s changed on the website
We have made changes to our website to make finding information easier. These improvements are based on your feedback. -
Helping pharmacists manage medicine shortages
In many cases, pharmacists and prescribers are able to provide or prescribe another approved medicine that is on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) or they can give a different strength or dosage of the same medicine.
Latest publications
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We commissioned the Health Design Lab to conduct market research to better understand the individual consumer, pharmacist and prescriber experiences of shortages and discontinuations.
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Find out how we are managing shortages of medicines and taking action to limit their effects. Read our 2024 report.
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Medicines Safety Update - Information for health professionals