Chloramphenicol (Devatis) Eye ointment 1%: Supply issue resolved
Supplies were low of chloramphenicol eye ointment (Pharmacode: 2576902). Due to a shortage of the active ingredient, there were delays to making more ointment.
March 2026 | Stock is available
The supplier received a shipment in February 2026 and that stock has been released to wholesalers. We are continuing to monitor the supply status. Another shipment is expected in April 2026.
Affected product
Devatis, the supplier, has a limited supply of the following product. A shortage of the active ingredient (API) has created delays in making more of this product.
- Chemical: Chloramphenicol
- Presentation: Eye oint 1%
- Brand: Devatis
- Pharmacode: 2576902
- Subsidy: $1.55
- Measure / Qty: per 5 g OP
Other presentations of chloramphenicol remain available.
Schedule listings for chloramphenicol(external link)
Alternative products
The eye ointment should be available. However, if it isn't chloramphenicol eye drops can be used as an alternative. People who cannot access chloramphenicol ointment may need to talk to their prescriber about the best alternative product, this may need a new prescription.
Funded anti-infective eye preparations(external link)
More stock expected
Devatis is expecting another shipment in April 2026. We are continuing to work with Devatis to understand when this issue will be fully resolved.
Who to contact
If you have questions about this issue, email enquiry@pharmac.govt.nz
Please include as much information as you can about the product (presentation, brand, pharmacode) and who your wholesaler is.
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