Medication shortages - any ideas?

[Parodius]

Hi all, just wondering if anyone had any bright ideas - Neo is currently on fluoxetine for his anxiety issues, apparently there have been manufacturing issues with the doggy version so he has been on the ‘human equivalent’ for a couple of months now. The vets have just called me about his latest repeat prescription and they now can’t source the human version either. They are going to try writing me a prescription to fill at a human pharmacy but are not convinced this will work, but worth a shot I guess.

Will attempt that this afternoon but if I’m unsuccessful, does anyone know of any other avenues I could try? I’ve had a look at some online vet prescription places but can’t seem to find anywhere that has it

 

[Jacqui-S]

What dose of fluoxetine? Is it the syrup?

 

[Parodius]

What dose of fluoxetine? Is it the syrup?

No, it’s the 20mg tablets, 2 a day. He was on 32mg with the dog variety but apparently the human ones don’t come in that measurement so vet increased slightly to 40mg. Vets have said they can get the syrup in but at his current dosage it would be over £100 a week so trying to source tablets if we can. I have a weeks worth so enough to be getting on with, it’s just bad luck when I thought I was being organised!

 

[Jacqui-S]

I hadn't honestly heard of this, certainly hasn't affected us recently.
I know that the liquids are often extortionate and also that the 10mg tablets were an issue (also ££££) but the 10mg capsules were a substitute.
Possibly also an issue with the 40mg at one point last year. I suppose that could have an impact on supplies of 20mg.

Some pharmacies have limited suppliers (e.g. Boots) but independent pharmacies will often have a wider range of suppliers they can use, so picking another pharmacy may help.
If there is just none, then switching on to an alternative SSRI, though not ideal, is relatively painless, but you will need to speak to your vet of course.

 

[Parodius]

Thanks for the info, much appreciated - L went to our local pharmacy this afternoon and they were queuing out of the door so will try again tmrw, maybe see if there’s an independent nearby. The vets have an alternative in mind if need be so will see how it goes.