Progesterone (Utrogestan) 100 mg capsule: Supply constraint

Supply issue Active

Due to an increase in demand and long lead times to manufacture this product, there is limited supply of Utrogestan capsules (Pharmacode: 2086905).

4 May 2026 | Update

  • We have funded an alternative product from 8 May 2026 to make sure people can continue to access this product. 
  • From 1 May 2026, the Schedule was updated for monthly dispensing. Thank you for your patience. We know supply issues can be disruptive. 

11 May 2026: Pharmacode for the alternative product has been corrected.

Affected product

Pharmaco has limited supply of this medicine. 

  • Chemical: Progesterone
  • Presentation: Cap 100 mg
  • Brand: Utrogestan 
  • Pharmacode: 2086905
  • Subsidy: $14.85
  • Measure / Qty: per 30

Schedule listing for Utrogestan(external link)

Alternative product 

To maintain supply, a temporary alternative pack from the United Kingdom is being distributed from 8 May 2026. Medsafe has reviewed the product and granted a temporary labelling exemption, so it can be prescribed and dispensed as an approved medicine.
  • Chemical: Progesterone
  • Presentation: Cap 100 mg
  • Brand: Utrogestan UK
  • Pharmacode: 2730340
  • Subsidy: $14.85
  • Measure / Qty: per 30
An image of the alternative UK utrogestan 100mg packaging. The packet is white with blue details, and the words Utrogestan 100 across the front..

Same active ingredient, different packaging

The UK‑labelled Utrogestan capsules:

  • Contain the same active ingredient.
  • Are the same strength.
  • Are designed to work in the body the same way as the New Zealand product.

The medicine itself is identical. The only differences relate to labelling and packaging.

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Alternative packaging

Carton and blister labelling

  • The carton does not list sulfites as an allergen due to different regulatory requirements. However, the New Zealand data sheet lists sulfites as allergen in section 2.0.
  • The carton does not include storage instructions; however, storage conditions are the same as the NZ product.
  • Both UK and NZ blister strips state Utrogestan 100 mg / Progesterone 100 mg.
  • The UK pack includes a UK patient information leaflet. The information does not contradict the New Zealand leaflet and can be used safely.

People who take Utrogestan

You may receive a smaller supply than usual, and you may be given Utrogestan that has been supplied from the United Kingdom. It is the same medicine, but with different packaging.

Pharmacists

Sector Operations will be able to process these claims in May 2026 in the normal claim cycle.

Expected resupply

Multiple small shipments are arriving. Stock levels are likely to remain limited until late May 2026. 

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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