Substitutions approved for shortage of nicorandil tablets

Nicorandil tablets will be in shortage intermittently between November 2025 and March 2026. Availability of the 10 mg and 20 mg strengths of both brands (APO-Nicorandil from Arrotex Pharmaceuticals and Ikotab from Viatris) will vary over this time. 

To help patients have continuous access to the medicine they need over this time, we have made a Serious Scarcity Substitution Instrument (SSSI) that starts on 28 November 2025. The SSSI allows a pharmacist to substitute whichever brand and strength of nicorandil is available, if appropriate, without a new prescription. 

Nicorandil is indicated for the treatment of chronic stable angina pectoris.

For detailed information about the shortages, the SSSI and important factors when considering a substitution, visit About the shortage of nicorandil tablets.

For more information about SSSIs see Substituting scarce medicines and Serious Scarcity Substitution Instruments (SSSIs).