Transdermal patches for dementia treatment discontinued

Supply issues affecting rivastigmine daily transdermal patches have worsened after all strengths of Dr Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd’s Alzest transdermal patches were discontinued earlier this week (8 June).

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) subsequently updated its tier 3 – high impact – medicine supply notification for rivastigmine 4.6mg/24hours and 9.5mg/24hours daily transdermal patches, which was initially published 3 December 2025, to account for these discontinuations

The notification for the dementia treatment also highlighted that care from clinicians is needed if switching between daily and twice weekly (Zeyzelf) rivastigmine patches to avoid the risk of dosing errors.

The DHSC said that supply issues for rivastigmine 4.6mg/24hours and 9.5mg/24hours transdermal patches are expected to last until late September 2026.

The notification stated that rivastigmine 13.3mg/24hours transdermal patches remain available but cannot support an uplift in demand.

Rivastigmine (Zeyzelf) twice weekly 4.6 mg/24hours and 9.5 mg/24hours transdermal patches remain available but cannot support an uplift in demand.

Alternative formulations of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors remain available, except for galantamine modified-release capsules, which are in limited supply.

Unlicensed supplies of rivastigmine 4.6mg/24hours and 9.5mg/24hours daily patches may be sourced – specialist importers Chemys and Target Healthcare have confirmed they can obtain unlicensed stock, although lead times vary.

A copy of the notification, including actions required and supporting information, has been sent to all pharmacy NHS email addresses.

Further updates are available via the medicines supply tool on the Specialist Pharmacy Service website, which requires an NHS email address to access.

New shortages not listed on the SPS website can be reported using Community Pharmacy England's shortage reporting tool.