The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has issued a medicine supply notification for antibiotics for the treatment of Group A Strep.
“Supplies of antibiotics for the treatment of Group A Strep have seen a surge in demand and may be temporarily in limited supply at certain wholesalers and pharmacies,” said DHSC.
“Supplies are available with manufacturers, and deliveries into wholesalers and pharmacies are being expedited and are expected in the coming days.”
If the formulation of antibiotic prescribed is unavailable, DHSC has asked clinicians and local pharmacy teams to consider prescribing an alternative form or strength of the antibiotic where appropriate, ensuring the patient is not intolerant to any of the excipients in the alternative and is counselled on the appropriate dose (and volume) required.
In case of the antibiotic prescribed is unavailable and other formulations are unsuitable, DHSC suggested clinicians and local pharmacy teams to consider prescribing an alternative antibiotic, if the first line option is unavailable, taking into account any allergies or intolerances and referring to national guidance.
Sukhi Basra