The Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee has informed community pharmacies that Salazopyrin (sulfasalazine) 500mg suppositories are out of stock until the week beginning June 1.

The negotiator said supply issues affecting the medication, which is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, were caused by “an increase in demand seen by the sole supplier Pfizer.” 

PSNC also reported that limited supplies of Salofalk (mesalazine) 500mg suppositories, used to treat inflammatory bowel disease including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, will be available from Monday May 18 and that Pentasa 1g suppositories remain available during this period.