The Department of Health and Social Care has issued serious shortage protocols (SSPs) for three penicillin products amid serious concerns about supply levels during the ongoing Strep A outbreak.

The SSPs were announced this afternoon, with the DHSC saying it was taking “decisive action to support access to penicillin while demand is high”.

The protocols, which are in place form today until January 31, allow pharmacists to substitute a different quantity, strength or format for a prescribed penicillin oral solution product that is in short supply.

They apply to the following preparations:

• Phenoxymethylpenicillin 250mg/5ml oral solution sugar free
• Phenoxymethylpenicillin 250mg/5ml oral solution
• Phenoxymethylpenicillin 125mg/5ml oral solution sugar free.

Health minister Will Quince said: “The increased demand for the antibiotics prescribed to treat Strep A has meant some pharmacists have been unable to supply the medicine shown on the prescription.

“These Serious Shortage Protocols will allow pharmacists to supply an alternative form of penicillin, which will make things easier for them, patients, and GPs.

“We are taking decisive action to address these temporary issues and improve access to these medicines by continuing to work with manufacturers and wholesalers to speed up deliveries, bring forward stock they have to help ensure it gets to where it’s needed, and boost supply to meet demand as quickly as possible.”