We’ve been told that from February 2025 to May 2026, there will be a shortage of hydrocortisone sodium phosphate injection.
If you are renewing supplies for your emergency injection kit during this time, you will need to ask for a prescription of hydrocortisone sodium succinate 100 mg powder for solution for injection/infusion, which will be available for patients during the shortage.
How to order the alternative form
If you need to order a new emergency kit then you should ask your GP to issue a prescription for the alternative form of injectable hydrocortisone. For NHS prescriptions it is necessary to give the generic name which is:
- Hydrocortisone 100 mg Powder for Solution for Injection or Infusion 1×2 ml – vial with diluent (previously known as Solu-Cortef), by Pfizer
- Those outside the UK (Ireland, Europe and Americas) may also be able to obtain the Act-o-Vial preparation, containing hydrocortisone sodium succinate and water in a chambered ampoule
How to use Hydrocortisone 100 mg Powder for Solution for Injection or Infusion
This form of hydrocortisone is a powder so needs to be mixed with the sterile water solution prior to use.
The video below shows how to make up this injection type, but we would recommend asking your GP or endocrine nurse for support with this.
By loading the video, you agree to YouTube’s privacy policy.
Learn more
If you have any concerns or more questions about what the drug shortage might mean for you then please contact our nurse helpline.