Details of insulins being discontinued and availability shortages.
Please note this information was up-to-date on 31 January 2025, but you should check with a healthcare professional for the latest information if the below affects your diabetes management.
A number of insulins are currently in short supply and/or being discontinued and below we've given the latest information we have. The issue has recently been raised in an article in the bmj stating that the shortages should be a priority for the NHS. The article points out that medicine shortages, such as those affecting diabetes patients, have doubled between 2022 and 2024.
Fiasp FlexTouch Pens
A supply shortage of components (not insulin) for producing Fiasp FlexTouch pens (manufactured by Novo Nordisk) means that there are currently problems with availability of these pens.
The shortage began in April 2024, and the Fiasp FlexTouch 100 units/mL pre-filled pens are expected to remain out of stock until January 2026.
In the meantime, Fiasp in 100units/ml cartridges (Penfill) remain available. If you're switched to these cartridges, you will also need a re-useable NovoPen that takes the cartridges.
Tresiba FlexTouch Pens
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) have reported that NovoRapid® (insulin aspart) FlexTouch® 100units/ml solution for injection 3ml pre-filled pens are out of stock until late February 2025 and will subsequently be discontinued by Novo Nordisk from March 2025.
Levemir
It's understood that Novo Nordisk intends to discontinue Levemir insulin by the end of 2026.
Currently, no additional details are available, as the DHSC is collaborating with NHS England and clinical experts to prepare for this transition.
If you're currently using Levemir, it may be a good idea to discuss this and alternatives at your next diabetes-related appointment.
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Love My Libre is not associated or affiliated with Abbott or FreeStyle Libre. Content here and on our website www.lovemylibre.com does not constitute medical advice or replace the relationship between you and healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.
The author of this blog has type 1 diabetes and uses the FreeStyle Libre 2 which is provided on NHS prescription.
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