Phenytoin Sodium 100mg capsules out of stock

UPDATE 10 June 2020 : there has been a delay in the resupply of Accord phenytoin 100mg capsules. They hope to provide an update next week on a new date for resupply. In the meantime, Flynn Pharma, who also supply phenytoin, have sufficient supplies to meet demand.

We have been advised by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) that Accord are out of stock of phenytoin sodium NRIM 100mg capsules.

The supply issue has been caused by a regulatory change at their manufacturing site  and is expected to last until May 2020.

Flynn Pharma, who also supply phenytoin, have confirmed that they have sufficient supplies to meet demand during this time.

MHRA guidance

Phenytoin is an MHHRA class 1 anti-epileptic drug. This means that under guidance issued by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, it is important that anyone who is taking phenytoin has a consistent supply of the medication and ideally should not be switched to a different version of the same drug.

The DHSC’s Medicines Shortage Response Group has sought clinical advice from the Association of British Neurologists and the recommendation is for those prescribed phenytoin 100mg capsules to be switched, where appropriate, to the Flynn Pharma version.

Healthcare professionals have been told that patients should be monitored and may require specialist support, advice or referral.  

If you are currently taking Accord phenytoin 100mg capsules, you should make an appointment with your specialist doctor. Any changes in your treatment due to the shortage should be managed by a specialist rather than a GP.

You should discuss your treatment plan with your specialist and if you need to switch to a different version of the drug, your serum levels should be properly monitored on a regular basis to make sure you have the correct amount of the drug in your blood.

More information

We will continue to bring you updates on phenytoin via our website and through Facebook and Twitter.

Professor Ley Sander, Medical Director at Epilepsy Society advises on ways to manage the current shortages of epilepsy medication.

Call our Helpline

If you are taking phenytoin 100mg and are feeling anxious about this change, please contact our Helpline on 01494 601400 or email helpline@epilepsysociety.org.uk