Contractor notice: Extension to SSPs for Fluoxetine 10mg tablets (SSP005) and Atorvastatin 10mg chewable tablets (SSP032)
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has provided an update on the Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs) for Fluoxetine 10mg tablets (SSP005) and Lipitor® 10mg chewable tablets (SSP032).
SSP005 for Fluoxetine 10mg tablets was due to expire on 12 August 2022 but the end date has been further extended to Wednesday 7 December 2022.
SSP032 for Lipitor® 10mg chewable tablets was due to expire on 12 August 2022 but the end date has been further extended to Friday 26 August 2022.
SSP005 – Fluoxetine 10mg tablets
SSP005 provides that for every Fluoxetine 10mg tablet originally prescribed, one Fluoxetine 10mg capsule must be supplied:
| For prescriptions (NHS or private) requesting: | Supply permitted under SSP005: | Current expiry date |
| Fluoxetine 10mg tablets | Fluoxetine 10mg capsules | This SSP has been varied – the revised end date for SSP005 is now Wednesday 7 December 2022 |
SSP032 – Lipitor® 10mg chewable tablets
SSP032 provides that for every Lipitor® 10mg chewable tablet originally prescribed, either one Atorvastatin 10mg film-coated tablet or the equivalent dose of Atorvastatin 20mg/5ml oral suspension sugar free must be supplied.
| For prescriptions (NHS or private) requesting: | Supply permitted under SSP032: | Current expiry date |
| Lipitor® 10mg chewable tablets | Atorvastatin 10mg tablets OR Atorvastatin 20mg/5ml oral suspension sugar free |
This SSP has been varied – the revised end date for SSP032 is now Friday 26 August 2022 |
Please note: expiry dates of an SSP may be brought forward or extended, and the content may be amended at any time during the life of an SSP. Pharmacists should ensure they are using the latest version of an SSP before considering the supply of an alternative product.
Current versions of SSPs can be found at: www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/pharmacies-gp-practices-andappliance-contractors/serious-shortage-protocols-ssps
Support in implementing the SSPs
The following resources have been developed to support pharmacy teams in using these protocols.
Serious Shortage Protocols Operational Guidance
Serious Shortage Protocols Questions & Answers
PSNC’s Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs) Endorsing Factsheet
PSNC Briefing 023/19: Serious Shortage Protocols – A guide for community pharmacy teams
Background information on SSPs
Further information on what SSPs are and when they may be used is available via the links below.
