Medicine shortages

If you have psoriatic disease, you know how important your medicine is for keeping your symptoms under control. Currently, some people in the UK are having trouble getting their usual medicines from the pharmacy. This is called a medicine shortage. It means that some medicines, like methotrexate or special creams, might not always be available when you need them.

Methotrexate is one of the most common medicines used to treat psoriatic disease. It helps control pain, swelling, and skin rashes. However, sometimes methotrexate and other important medicines are hard to find.

When you can’t get your usual medicine, you might notice your skin or joints getting worse. Your skin could become itchier or sore, and your joints might swell or hurt more. This can make it harder to do things you enjoy or need to do every day, like getting dressed, walking, or going to work or school. If your medicine is not available, your doctor might try to find a different one for you, but sometimes these new medicines do not work as well or might cause side effects that are difficult to manage.

Not having the right medicine can also make you feel worried or stressed. You might have to visit the doctor or hospital more often if your symptoms get worse. Some people might feel scared about what will happen if they cannot get the medicine they need. This can be very upsetting for you and your family.

If you are worried about running out of your medicine, talk to your pharmacist or your doctor as soon as possible. They may know which pharmacy has your medicine in stock, or they can help you find another way to treat your symptoms. If you feel worse or are having new problems, let your doctor know right away. They want to help you feel better and keep your symptoms under control.

Medicines currently in short supply (as of June 2025)

Methotrexate, both injectable and oral forms of methotrexate, a key treatment for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, have been in short supply. This shortage is mainly due to increased demand and manufacturing delays. Some suppliers have methotrexate available, but others are on back order, and supply remains inconsistent.

Abatacept (125mg pre-filled injection pens), used for certain autoimmune diseases including psoriatic arthritis, has been reported to be in short supply since June 2024.

Some biologic medicines, such as tocilizumab, may also face intermittent supply issues. However, methotrexate and abatacept are the most clearly documented current shortages affecting people with psoriatic disease.

If you are affected by these shortages, speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for advice on alternatives or to find out when your medicine might be back in stock.

References:

Community Pharmacy England
House of Commons Library
The Company Chemists' Association