Loratadine (Lorafix) tab 10 mg: Supply issue

Affected product

Recent batches of Lorafix have been rejected because of an issue with tablet hardness. New batches will need to be made and this will take 2 to 3 months. As a result, there will be an out of stock of:

Loratadine

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

Alternative product 

We have been advised that cetirizine may be a suitable alternative. People will need a new prescription to access 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.

Expected resupply

Loratadine should be available again by the end of August 2025.

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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