Atorvastatin (Lorstat) 80 mg tabs: Supply issue

Affected product

Due to delays at the manufacturing plant, the supplier is running low on the 500-pack of Lorstat 80 mg.

• Presentation: Tab 80 mg
• Brand: Lorstat
• Pharmacode: 2493616
• Subsidy: $25.39
• Measure / Qty: per 500

Schedule listing for atorvastatin(external link)

Alternative product

To ensure treatment is available in case anyone cannot access the 500 pack, we have re-listed the 30-pack, which was previously listed in 2025 to support an earlier supply issue. 

• Presentation: Tab 80 mg
• Brand: Lorstat
• Pharmacode: 2697599
• Subsidy: $1.52
• Measure / Qty: per 30

For pharmacists

Storage condition packaging differences

Viatris advises that although the Australian product is packed in a blister pack, the tablets are otherwise identical to the New Zealand product and it is also registered for use in New Zealand.

The labelling for the Australian packaging was recently registered with Medsafe; however, the Australian carton included a storage condition to discard 30 days after the first tablet is taken. There is no requirement stated in the New Zealand registration (or requested by Medsafe) to discard the pack 30 days after the first tablet is taken.

Viatris advises that the product is shelf stable within the blister packaging for the duration of the registered shelf-life.  

17 February 2025 | Viatris letter about packaging differences [PDF, 98 KB]

Lorstat Medsafe datasheet (see the bottom of page 18) [PDF](external link)

Communication with people who take Lorstat

We have developed a generic A5 flier for supply issues. We hope it will support conversations with people affected by supply issues. 

Expected resupply February 2026

The supplier expects the 500 pack to be available again in February 2026.

Who to contact

If you have questions about this product or the listed alternative, email medinfo_anz@viatris.com

Or, you can email Pharmac at: enquiry@pharmac.govt.nz

Please include as much information as you can about the product (presentation, brand, Pharmacode) and who your wholesaler is.

Sign up to our email list for regular emails about supply issues and more(external link)