Type 2 Diabetes & GLP-1 RA Shortage — March 2024 update for England and Northern Ireland

A wave of GLP‑1 receptor agonist shortages in March 2024 forced quick changes in diabetes care across England and Northern Ireland. Clinicians got safety notices and prescribing guidance, and one treatment — Mounjaro (tirzepatide) — emerged as a key option where supplies allow. If you or someone you care for uses GLP‑1 drugs, this summary tells you what happened and what practical steps to take now.

What changed and why it matters

Supply problems hit several GLP‑1 medicines. That left clinics scrambling to keep people on effective regimens. Health services issued alerts asking prescribers to review who most needs uninterrupted treatment and to avoid large re‑prescriptions that drain local stocks. Mounjaro became more widely discussed because it can help people with type 2 diabetes who need stronger glucose control, but availability varies by region and clinic.

Practical steps for patients

First, don’t stop or switch medicines without talking to your GP or diabetes nurse. Sudden changes can raise blood sugar or cause side effects. Call your clinic early if you see a low supply notice or if your pharmacy cannot fill your prescription. Ask whether you qualify for alternative GLP‑1 drugs, insulin adjustments, or temporary intensification of other oral medicines like metformin or an SGLT2 inhibitor.

Keep a short supply of prescriptions and avoid bulk ordering—stockpiling can worsen shortages for others. Monitor blood glucose more often during any change and note symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or increased thirst. If you use injection devices, confirm you have the right needles and disposal plan. If travel or delayed refills are likely, ask for a clinical review and a clear short‑term plan.

Lastly, ask your provider about Mounjaro if you’ve had poor control with other treatments. It’s not suitable or available for everyone, and local safety notices will guide who should be offered it first.

Guidance for clinicians and pharmacies

Prioritise patients with unstable glucose, recent hospital admissions, or high hypoglycaemia risk. Use national and regional safety notices to set local prescribing rules. Document decision making and discuss risks and benefits with patients when proposing a temporary switch or starting Mounjaro. Coordinate with pharmacy teams to track stock levels and expected deliveries.

Where switching is needed, provide clear instructions on dosing changes and monitoring: set review appointments within weeks, advise on hypoglycaemia signs, and check renal function where relevant. Avoid abrupt discontinuation; taper or plan bridging therapy when possible. Report supply issues up the chain so commissioners and suppliers can act faster.

March 2024 showed how fragile medicine supply can affect daily care. Stay informed through your clinic and local health alerts, communicate clearly, and make short‑term plans that keep people safe while longer solutions are organised.