Bipolar UK’s response to quetiapine shortages

Bipolar UK is deeply concerned about the potential impact of the current national shortage of certain mental health medications. This includes quetiapine, which is an antipsychotic taken by many people who live with bipolar. 

The shortages are mostly for the higher strengths of immediate-release quetiapine. This includes 150mg, 200mg and 300mg immediate-release tablets. Quetiapine MR tablets are also in limited supply.

For anyone concerned about the impact of these shortages, here are some answers to your commonly asked questions: 

Q. Who is affected by these quetiapine shortages?

This is a nationwide issue affecting all pharmacies across the UK.

Q. What can happen if I stop taking quetiapine?

If you stop taking quetiapine suddenly, it can cause side effects, such as mood swings, anxiety, insomnia, nausea, dizziness and irritability. It can also potentially cause bipolar symptoms to get worse. 

It is important that you get the right support and help if you cannot get your usual quetiapine prescription.

Q. What should I do if my medication is affected?

• Don’t stop or reduce your dose without medical advice
  It’s important to continue taking your medication as prescribed unless a healthcare professional tells you otherwise.

• Contact your pharmacy as soon as you can
  Under Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs), they can often provide an alternative strength or formulation the same day.

• If your usual pharmacy can’t help, try another one
  Your pharmacist may be able to call around for you, or you can use the NHS Find a Pharmacy page to check availability locally.

• Check if you have any spare medication at home
  Make sure it’s the correct dose and still in date before taking it.

• If you’re unable to get your medication in time, speak to your GP or mental health team
  They can advise on next steps and may be able to adjust your prescription temporarily while shortages continue.

• If you can’t reach your GP, you can call NHS 111 for advice

It is vital that you do not make any changes to your medication without medical supervision or advice from a qualified professional.

Q. Where can I get support or advice if I’m worried about these shortages?

• If you are feeling anxious about these shortages, please speak to a trusted friend or family member and ask them to help you.
• For advice and practical information, contact our peer support team.
• To talk to others who understand what it’s like to face the same issues, join our Online Community.
• If you are in a crisis, get urgent help.

Other medication shortages

Bipolar UK are also aware of other serious medication shortages, including fluoxetine and venlafaxine, as well as the discontinuation of asenapine. Although there is no official national DHSC notice, people in our community have also reported lamotrigine shortages in some local areas.

We are actively working with experts to investigate the shortages and will update the community as we learn more in the coming weeks.

If you are worried about the availability of your medication, please contact your GP or mental health team to discuss your options.