Serious Shortage Protocols (SSP) have been issued for three penicillin medicines.

SSPs are used to manage temporary and potential medicine supply issues, to ensure that medicines continue to be available for everyone.

SSPs mean pharmacists are legally able to supply a specified alternative medicine, so the patient does not need to return to the prescriber.

Demand for penicillin has risen, as it is being used to treat Step A and Scarlet Fever. This has led to supply issues.

Minister of State for Health Will Quince said: "The increased demand for the antibiotics prescribed to treat Strep A has meant some pharmacists have been unable to supply the medicine shown on the prescription.

"These Serious Shortage Protocols will allow pharmacists to supply an alternative form of penicillin, which will make things easier for them, patients, and GPs.

"We are taking decisive action to address these temporary issues and improve access to these medicines by continuing to work with manufacturers and wholesalers to speed up deliveries, bring forward stock they have to help ensure it gets to where it’s needed, and boost supply to meet demand as quickly as possible."

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