As a result of serious, ongoing issues with the supply chain of Paracetamol 120mg and 240mg suppositories, the Department of Health and Social Care has issued a Serious Shortage Protocol (SSP) in support of patient care.

The SSP (Ref: 015) has come into force today (25th January 2022) and confirms that for every Paracetamol 120mg or 240mg suppository prescribed, one Paracetamol 125mg or 250mg suppository must be dispensed and supplied to the patient or their representative.

This SSP, confirmed by the Secretary of State, has been prepared by a panel of Clinicians and directs Pharmacists in the hospital or community sectors to provide either of these alternative presentations to help facilitate a reduction in the number of patients having to contact their General Practitioner, or prescriber, for an alternative prescription.

During interaction with the patient, the following points should be considered by the Pharmacy professional:

Those not suitable for SSP015 should be referred back to the prescriber
The Pharmacist should inform the prescriber when SSP015 is applied
The Pharmacist should refer the patient back to the prescriber if their professional judgement dictates

At all times, the Pharmacist must exercise caution and utilise their professional judgement when deciding on the best course of action when in receipt of a prescription for Paracetamol 120mg or 240mg suppositories.

Further information in relation to SSP015 may be located at the Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee (PSNC) website located here.