A number of commonly used oral antibiotics are in critical shortage globally, affecting all health services and the community.
Currently, cephalexin suspension is unavailable at Monash Health. Supply of other antibiotic suspensions and some other oral antibiotics are limited.
The shortage is expected to continue into February 2023.
Monash Health employees involved in prescribing or administering medication are asked to follow the recommendations below to ensure existing oral suspensions are prioritised, and appropriate alternatives are prescribed during this time:
- Use a tablet or capsule formulation wherever possible. Consult a pharmacist for advice on medicine availability and solid dose form modification.
- Oral antibiotic suspensions (where available) are restricted to paediatric use.
- Oral antibiotics are also in shortage in the community – check availability with a pharmacist before sending prescriptions out of the hospital.
- Check the Medication Shortage Dashboard for advice on medicines availability.
We appreciate the challenges that will occur with these shortages and are here to support you. Please consult Infectious Diseases or a pharmacist if further recommendations about appropriate alternative antibiotics are required.
The Monash Health Pharmacy Team has plans in place to manage existing supplies and will provide updates over the coming weeks.
Approved by: Sue Kirsa, Director of Pharmacy