UK Aspirin Supply Issues: What It Means for Patients and How to Stay Protected

Aspirin is one of the most widely used medicines in the UK. For millions of people, it plays a vital role in protecting against heart attacks and strokes, particularly when taken daily at low doses on medical advice.

In recent months, some pharmacies across the UK have experienced intermittent supply issues with certain aspirin products. Many patients have reported difficulty obtaining their usual brand or strength, which has understandably caused concern, especially among people who rely on aspirin every day for long-term cardiovascular protection.

This article explains what is behind current aspirin supply pressures, who may be affected, what patients should (and should not) do, and how to access aspirin safely during this period.

Why are there supply issues with aspirin in the UK?

Current aspirin supply pressures are the result of several overlapping factors affecting global and UK medicine supply chains.

Aspirin is a generic medicine, meaning it is manufactured by multiple companies worldwide, with much of the active ingredient sourced from overseas suppliers. When production slows or demand increases suddenly, temporary shortages can develop.

In recent months, manufacturing delays and reduced availability from key suppliers have limited the supply of certain aspirin products reaching the UK. Demand has remained high, particularly for low-dose aspirin used for heart and stroke prevention, which has contributed to uneven availability between pharmacies and regions.

As part of standard measures used when essential medicines are affected, aspirin has been added to the UK’s restricted medicines list, meaning it cannot be parallel exported or stockpiled while supply pressures persist. These steps are intended to prioritise UK patients, although availability may still vary locally.

Why aspirin is so important for many patients

Aspirin has been used in medicine for over a century, but its role in cardiovascular health is especially important today.

At low doses (usually 75–100 mg daily), aspirin acts as an antiplatelet medicine, reducing the tendency of blood platelets to clump together and form clots. Blood clots are a major cause of heart attacks and strokes.

For patients who have already had a cardiovascular event, such as a heart attack, ischaemic stroke, or transient ischaemic attack (TIA), aspirin can significantly reduce the risk of another event when taken consistently as prescribed.

It may also be prescribed for people with:

  • Angina or coronary artery disease
  • Peripheral arterial disease
  • A history of stents or bypass surgery
  • Certain high-risk conditions, such as diabetes or chronic kidney disease, where cardiovascular risk is elevated

Because aspirin works preventatively, stopping or missing doses without medical advice may increase risk.

Who may be most affected?

While occasional users who take aspirin for short-term pain relief may find alternatives, supply issues are more significant for people who rely on daily low-dose aspirin for long-term protection.

People with heart disease or previous strokes

Interruptions to antiplatelet treatment may increase the risk of serious complications if not managed appropriately.

People with diabetes

Some people with diabetes are prescribed aspirin as part of a broader cardiovascular risk reduction strategy.

People with chronic kidney disease

Cardiovascular disease is closely linked to kidney disease, and aspirin may be used in selected patients under careful medical supervision.

People recovering from cardiac procedures

After procedures such as stent placement or bypass surgery, aspirin is often an essential long-term medicine.

What should patients do if they cannot get aspirin?

If you normally take aspirin on prescription and are told your usual product is unavailable, it is important not to stop taking it without medical advice.

Instead:

  • Speak to your pharmacist first. They can advise on availability, alternative brands, or expected restocks
  • If needed, your GP or specialist may recommend a suitable alternative
  • Do not substitute aspirin with another medicine unless advised by a healthcare professional

In most cases, temporary supply issues can be managed safely with professional advice, and suitable solutions are usually available.

Are there alternatives to aspirin?

In some cases, doctors may prescribe an alternative antiplatelet medicine, such as clopidogrel. These medicines work in different ways but can provide similar protection for certain patients.

However:

  • Alternatives are not suitable for everyone
  • Bleeding risks may differ
  • Dosing and monitoring requirements are not the same

Any change to antiplatelet treatment should always be supervised by a healthcare professional.

Can I buy aspirin over the counter?

Under normal circumstances, aspirin is widely available from pharmacies without a prescription. During periods of supply pressure, some pharmacies may temporarily limit over-the-counter sales in order to prioritise patients with prescriptions.

If you usually buy aspirin without a prescription, availability may vary depending on the product and pharmacy. Always speak to a pharmacist before purchasing, particularly if you take aspirin regularly or on medical advice.

Daily aspirin for cardiovascular protection should only be taken following advice from a doctor or pharmacist.

Where can I buy aspirin?

At medino, we understand how worrying medicine supply issues can be, especially when you rely on a treatment every day.

Like all pharmacies, availability can change depending on supplier deliveries. Where stock is available, aspirin products can be ordered through medino and delivered to your door.

Current options may include:

If you are unsure which product is suitable for you, or if you take aspirin regularly on medical advice, our pharmacy team is always happy to help.

Pharmacist’s comment

"Aspirin is a simple medicine, but for many patients it plays a critical role in preventing serious cardiovascular events. If you are affected by supply issues, do not stop treatment on your own. Speak to a pharmacist or your GP so the right decision can be made safely. In most cases, there will be a suitable solution."

Alessandro Grenci, Superintendent Pharmacist

Why medicine supply issues can feel so disruptive

For patients, medicine supply problems are not just an inconvenience. They can cause anxiety and uncertainty, especially when the medicine involved is linked to preventing life-threatening conditions.

Clear communication, professional advice, and early planning with repeat prescriptions can help reduce disruption during periods of limited availability.

Looking ahead

While supply pressures remain for some aspirin products, measures are in place to support UK availability and consistency over time. Medicine shortages are becoming more common globally, affecting many essential treatments.

Staying informed, ordering prescriptions in good time, and using a trusted pharmacy can help minimise disruption.

Key takeaways

  • Some aspirin products have experienced intermittent supply issues in the UK
  • People taking daily low-dose aspirin should not stop without medical advice
  • Alternatives may be available but must be prescribed appropriately
  • Aspirin availability varies by pharmacy and product
  • Pharmacists can help guide safe next steps if supply issues arise
Written by Christian Jakobsson
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