18/10/2013

Antibiotic Shortage Issue Raised

The Department of Health has warned of a shortage of a widely used antibiotic, Augmentin, from next month.

According to the department, a shortage of the 375mg tablet is expected in a few weeks, followed by a shortage of the higher strength, 625mg tablet, in January.

The antibiotic is used to treat chest infections, including bronchitis and pneumonia.

In response to a Dáil question, Minister of State at the Department of Health Alex White said the shortages were due to a combination of manufacturing problems at two UK sites of GlaxosmithKline, coupled with an increase in demand.

It is also expected that the shortages will last until at least September 2014.

(MH/IT)

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