Disulfiram 200mg supply update — March 2024

This month we covered a key supply alert: Community Pharmacy England flagged a problem with Disulfiram 200mg tablets made by Mylan Laboratories Limited. Manufacturing issues could mean limited availability, with delays potentially lasting until August 2024. If you or someone you care for relies on Disulfiram, this is a heads-up you don’t want to miss.

What happened

Mylan reported manufacturing problems that may reduce or pause shipments of Disulfiram 200mg. Community Pharmacy England passed that on to help pharmacists plan stock and patient care. The core point: expect tighter supplies and possible local shortages for the coming months.

Practical steps for patients and pharmacists

If you take Disulfiram, don’t stop it suddenly. Talk to your prescriber or pharmacist as soon as you learn about the shortage. They can check nearby pharmacies, look for alternative manufacturers, or arrange short-term solutions so you don’t miss doses.

Pharmacists should review current patients on Disulfiram 200mg, prioritise those at higher risk if supply is low, and contact prescribers about options. That might include dispensing different strengths or brands, splitting doses where safe, or temporarily switching to other evidence-based treatments for alcohol dependence after a clinical review.

Alternative medicines commonly used in alcohol dependence treatment include naltrexone and acamprosate. These aren’t direct substitutes for Disulfiram and require a prescriber’s assessment. Ask about suitability and monitoring before any switch.

For short-term gaps, community pharmacies can contact wholesalers to confirm incoming stock, place back-orders, or coordinate with nearby branches. Patients can also call ahead to confirm availability before a trip to the pharmacy to avoid wasted journeys.

Keep records and communicate clearly: pharmacists should note any temporary switches, patient consent for changes, and follow-up plans. Patients should report side effects or new symptoms quickly and keep regular appointments with their care team.

If you’re unsure where to get reliable information, ask your pharmacist or prescriber. Avoid buying medicine from unknown online sellers. Use reputable pharmacies and verify manufacturer details on the medicine label.

Community pharmacists can also notify local health bodies or professional organisations about ongoing shortages. That helps coordinate wider responses, such as sourcing from alternative suppliers or informing prescribers of the need to adjust treatment plans.

This archive month focused on this single but important update because it affects continuity of care. We’ll share further notices if suppliers give new timelines or alternative options become available. Meanwhile, check with your pharmacy, keep your care team informed, and don’t stop medication without professional guidance.