UK Skin Medication Shortages: Six Treatments Facing Supply Problems

People across the UK who rely on prescription treatments for eczema, psoriasis and other skin conditions are facing increasing difficulties obtaining some commonly used medicines.

Several dermatological treatments are currently experiencing supply problems, with some products not expected to become widely available again until late 2026 or early 2027. The situation comes amid wider concerns about medicine availability across the UK, affecting treatments for a range of health conditions.

For people managing long-term skin conditions, interruptions to regular treatment can be particularly concerning. However, pharmacy and dermatology organisations say alternative treatments may be available when a particular medicine cannot be obtained.

Which skin medicines are affected?

Recent reports have highlighted supply issues affecting several topical treatments prescribed for skin conditions.

The medicines identified include:

• Diprosalic Scalp Application
• Elocon Ointment
• Eumovate Ointment 0.05%
• Finacea
• Skinoren
• Silkis Ointment, which has reportedly been discontinued

These medicines are used for different dermatological conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and acne-related problems.

According to the supplied report, Diprosalic Scalp Application is currently unavailable from its manufacturer, with supplies expected to resume around October 2026. Elocon Ointment has also experienced intermittent availability, with its anticipated return pushed back to November.

Eumovate Ointment 0.05% is expected to remain unavailable until early November, while Finacea and Skinoren may experience intermittent supply problems into early 2027.

The exact availability of medicines can vary between pharmacies and regions, so patients may not experience the same situation everywhere.

Why are UK pharmacies experiencing medicine shortages?

Medicine shortages can happen for several reasons, and there is not necessarily one explanation for every affected product.

The supplied source reports that higher energy, raw material and transport costs have increased the expense involved in manufacturing and distributing medicines. International supply chain pressures can also affect the availability of pharmaceutical products in the UK.

Another factor discussed by Medicines UK is the difference between the cost of obtaining a medicine and the amount pharmacies receive for dispensing it.

This is sometimes described as an economic shortage. In this situation, medicine may technically exist within the UK supply chain, but pharmacies can struggle to obtain it at a price that fits within the reimbursement arrangements.

The report explains that pharmacies generally receive a fixed amount from the NHS for dispensing medicines. When wholesale prices rise above the amount reimbursed, a medicine may be included on the price concessions list.

This can create additional pressure for pharmacies attempting to maintain supplies.

How could shortages affect people with eczema and psoriasis?

Eczema and psoriasis are long-term conditions that can require regular treatment to control symptoms.

Eczema can cause dry, irritated and itchy skin, while psoriasis commonly produces areas of flaky skin and silvery scales. Treatments can include moisturisers, topical steroids and other prescription medicines.

For some patients, finding an effective treatment can take time. As a result, an unexpected change in medication may cause concern, particularly if a person has previously struggled to control their symptoms.

Psoriasis UK has said that patients regularly report difficulties accessing treatments. The organisation has also highlighted that treatment options are available in different forms, including creams, ointments, lotions, gels and sprays.

This means a shortage of one particular product does not necessarily mean that treatment has to stop.

What should you do if your prescription is unavailable?

If a pharmacy tells you that your usual skin medicine is unavailable, it is important not to make changes to your treatment without appropriate advice.

A pharmacist may be able to check whether another pharmacy has stock. Depending on the medicine and the reason it has been prescribed, a GP, pharmacist or specialist may also be able to recommend an alternative treatment.

Patients should explain if they are running out of medication or are unable to obtain their prescription. This can help healthcare professionals determine whether an alternative prescription or treatment is required.

It may also be useful to contact your pharmacy before your current supply runs out, particularly if you regularly depend on a medicine that has been reported as being in short supply.

When could supplies return?

The dates reported for several affected treatments include:

These dates should be treated as expected supply information rather than guarantees. Manufacturing and distribution circumstances can change, meaning availability may improve sooner or take longer than anticipated.

Pharmacists facing additional pressure

Pharmacy organisations have raised broader concerns about medicine availability.

Community Pharmacy England has reported a large number of medicines appearing on the government's price concessions list. The supplied report states that 216 medicines were included on the list for September 2026, covering a range of treatments.

Some dermatological medicines were among those affected by pricing pressures.

Pharmacy representatives have also described the additional work involved in locating medicines when regular suppliers cannot provide them. This can involve contacting wholesalers, checking alternative sources and communicating with prescribers about potential substitutions.

For patients, these supply problems can translate into delays when collecting prescriptions.

What does this mean for UK patients?

The current situation highlights the wider challenges involved in maintaining reliable medicine supplies.

For people using dermatological medicines, a shortage of one product does not automatically mean there are no treatment options. Healthcare professionals can sometimes identify another formulation or medicine that is suitable for the individual's condition.

However, patients should seek professional advice before changing prescription treatments, particularly topical steroids and other medicines that have been prescribed for a specific condition.

Anyone experiencing worsening symptoms, significant discomfort or problems obtaining essential medication should contact an appropriate healthcare professional for advice.

Key takeaway

Several commonly prescribed skin treatments in the UK are currently experiencing supply problems, including medicines used for eczema, psoriasis and other dermatological conditions.

Some supplies are expected to return during autumn 2026, while others may face intermittent availability into 2027. The reported causes include manufacturing and supply chain pressures, increased costs and difficulties within the pharmaceutical pricing system.

Patients who cannot obtain their usual medication should speak with their pharmacist, GP or specialist rather than stopping or changing treatment independently. Alternative treatments may be available depending on the condition and the individual's circumstances.

Source: The Sun, published September 29, 2026.

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for general information only and should not be considered medical advice. Medicine availability can change, and treatment decisions should be discussed with a qualified pharmacist, GP or relevant healthcare professional. Do not stop, substitute or alter prescribed medication without professional advice.