The serious shortage protocol for fluoxetine 30mg capsules is finally coming to an end after a year and a half of serious supply issues.  

Several formations of the antidepressant have been under serious shortage protocols since the mechanism – aimed to mitigate the impact of medicines drug shortages – was introduced in 2019.  

Fluoxetine 30mg capsules was among the first three formulations to ever come under an SSP back in October of 2019 - which it has remained under since. 

However, the SSP for the drug is due to expire on tomorrow (28 July) as there is now ‘sufficient stock’ of the drug to ‘meet normal demand’ PSNC have said today (27 June).  

‘After this date, any prescriptions for Fluoxetine 30mg capsules must be dispensed in accordance with the prescription,’ the negotiating body said.  

According to the NHS Business Services Authority, there are currently two active SSPs for fluoxetine – SSP007 for the 30mg capsules, SSP05 for 10mg tablets.  

The SSP for 10mg tablets has been in place for a year but is due to expire at the end of this August. 

In June, the drug’s sole manufacturer — Advanz Pharma — told The Pharmacist that the current shortage was the result of ‘manufacturing issues’. 

They also said there had been a ‘decrease in production capacity due to Covid’.