Serious antibiotic shortage looming

Pharmacies are just weeks away from a shortage of the country’s most commonly prescribed antibiotic.

Stocks of Augmentin, and its generic equivalents, will start to run out next month in the most frequently prescribed dosage, while stocks of a larger dosage tablet will only last to January.

The Department of Health has warned that the difficulties are set to last until autumn of next year and says it is making efforts to source alternative supplies.