A warning has been issued to individuals taking common painkillers and blood pressure medications, as several drugs are currently experiencing shortages across the UK. According to Mediwatch, a website tracking medicines officially declared in shortage by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), Ramipril 1.25mg capsules is among those listed as experiencing shortages in pharmacies.
Medications Affected
The data, sourced from the live Community Pharmacy England (CPE) Medicine Supply Notification list and Serious Shortage Protocol register, includes Ramipril alongside Co-codamol 30mg/500mg tablets, Diamorphine 5mg, 10mg, 100mg injection, Genotropin (somatropin) 5.3mg / 12mg injection, Co-trimoxazole oral suspension, Propranolol 80mg + 160mg MR capsules, Estradot 25 / 50 / 75 / 100 mcg patches, and Creon 10000/25000 gastro-resistant capsules.
What to Do If Your Medication Is Affected
Mediwatch advises patients to check with their pharmacist if their medication is among those listed. Pharmacies may be able to dispense a different strength, quantity, or related medicine without a new prescription, upon request. The website also recommends ordering repeat prescriptions early and contacting a GP if feeling unwell without medication.
Understanding Ramipril
Ramipril is widely used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, and is also prescribed after a heart attack. It helps prevent future strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems by widening blood vessels and easing the heart's pumping action. Available on prescription as tablets, capsules, or liquid.
Despite using the same data as pharmacies, Mediwatch emphasizes that the national shortage may not reflect same-day stock at local pharmacies. Always check directly with your pharmacist.
