Ranitidine shortage continues

Following advice from the EMA, the MHRA has suspended all licences for ranitidine products in the UK because of ongoing investigations into possible contamination with N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDMA), a potential carcinogen.

No further supplies can be manufactured until regulatory investigations are complete, the DHSC said in an update on 30th March.

Resupply dates for all formulations of ranitidine, including tablets, effervescent tablets, oral solution and injection, therefore remain unknown. Any new information will be updated on the MIMS drug shortages tracker as soon as it becomes available. 

The recall of ranitidine products began in 2019 and the DHSC has previously issued switching advice for oral ranitidine preparations and ranitidine 50mg/2ml injection to help healthcare professionals transition patients to suitable alternatives.

Before switching to another agent, prescribers should consider whether the patient still requires treatment or could be stepped down to an antacid or alginate.