Phenytoin sodium (Dilantin) 30 mg capsules: Supply issue

Affected product

Equipment failure at the factory has delayed the next shipment of this product. The supplier has limited stock available. Some people in some regions may not be able to get their usual medicine. 

If a pharmacy does run out, it would only be for a matter of days. 

Wholesalers are actively moving stock to try to prevent this happening. Pharmac is talking directly with clinicians and consumer groups to keep them informed. 

This delay is not caused by the conflict in the Middle East.

• Presentation: Cap 30 mg
• Brand: Dilantin
• Pharmacode: 2619458
• Subsidy: $74.00
• Measure / Qty: per 200

Schedule listings for phenytoin sodium(external link)

All other presentations of phenytoin remain available and are unaffected.

Expected resupply 13 April 2026

The next shipment has been air-freighted to New Zealand. It will then need to clear standard border checks and make its way to wholesalers and pharmacies across the country. The supplier expects stock to begin arriving at pharmacies from Monday 13 April at the latest.

We're sorry

We know how important this medicine is for anyone taking it. The supplier and Pharmac are working hard to minimise any disruption you experience.

Who to contact

If you take Dilantin 30 mg capsules, talk to your pharmacist first.  

If you have funding 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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