Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has issued a Serious Shortage Protocol (SSP) for Fluoxetine 10mg tablets.
The move follows a significant disruption to the supply of the antidepressant.
The SSP05, which takes effect today (March 12), provides pharmacists with procedures to follow in providing a suitable alternative product - Fluoxetine 10mg capsules - without going back to the prescriber.
The protocol is set to expire on June 12, but it could be amended or revoked at any time.
PSNC informed that all community pharmacy teams will receive an email to their shared NHSmail account on the SSP.
“The pharmacist must exercise their professional judgement to ensure the alternative product is suitable for the patient,” PSNC added.
The negotiator said it has applied for a price concession for Fluoxetine 10mg capsules for March. The drug was granted concession in January and February this year.
“No concession has been granted yet and we don’t know whether one will be but, in light of this SSP, our Dispensing and Supply Team will be making a strong case for one to be granted as quickly as possible to provide contractors with some security on the issue of reimbursement,” PSNC said in a communication.
