Loratadine (Lorafix) tab 10 mg: Supply issue resolved

There was an out of stock of loratadine (Lorafix) 10 mg tablets (Pharmacode 2443996) because of an issue affecting the hardness of the tablets.

Affected product

Recent batches of Lorafix have been rejected because of an issue with tablet hardness. New batches needed to be made. As a result, there was an out of stock of:

Loratadine

  • Presentation: Tab 10 mg
  • Brand: Lorafix
  • Pharmacode: 2443996 
  • Subsidy: $1.78
  • Measure / Qty: per 100 

Alternative product 

We were advised that cetirizine may be a suitable alternative. People will need a new prescription for funded access to this product. 

Cetirizine hydrochloride

  • Presentation: Tab 10 mg
  • Brand: Zista
  • Pharmacode: 2500728
  • Subsidy: $1.71
  • Measure / Qty: per 100

The supplier of Zista has indicated that there is ample stock of Zista to ensure people can continue to access treatment.

There is a supply issue affecting another antihistamine, fexofenadine 120 mg tablets

We have prepared a flier to support pharmacists' conversations with people affected.

Resupplied August 2025

Loratadine has arrived and been distributed to wholesalers. It can take another 1 to 2 weeks to reach pharmacies around New Zealand Aotearoa.

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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