Serious shortage protocol for fluoxetine 10mg capsules revoked

The Government has withdrawn one of the three serious shortage protocols (SSP) it introduced earlier this month in response to shortages of antidepressant, fluoxetine.

Fluoxetine 10mg capsules can now be prescribed and dispensed as per usual. | GETTY IMAGES

The SSP relating to fluoxetine 10mg capsules has been withdrawn as there is now sufficient stock available to meet normal demand.

The protocol allowed pharmacists to supply, with the consent of the patient, an alternative pharmaceutical form of fluoxetine without needing to go back to the prescriber. Since the SSP is no longer valid for use, fluoxetine 10mg capsules must be dispensed in accordance with the prescription.

The SSPs for fluoxetine 30mg and 40mg capsules remain in place and pharmacists are advised to regularly check for validity. 

For drugs currently in short supply, take a look at the live MIMS drug shortages tracker

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