Sulphur (sulfur) powder: Discontinuation

Discontinuation Active

This product is being discontinued globally. As such, Midwest Pharmaceuticals can no longer supply sulphur BP powder (Pharmacode: 2121158).

Affected product

This product is used in dermatological treatments prepared by pharmacists (extemporaneously compounded). Midwest Pharmaceuticals can no longer supply this product because it's being discontinued globally. 

Chemical: Sulphur 

  • Presentation: Precipitated
  • Brand: Midwest
  • Pharmacode: 2121158
  • Subsidy: $6.35 
  • Measure / Qty: per 100 g

Alternative products

There are funded commercially made products that may be suitable alternatives. 

People will need to talk to their prescribers and community pharmacy to assess what solution will meet their clinical needs, which may include the following conditions:

  • psoriasis
  • acne
  • seborrhoeic dermatitis
  • rosacea
  • scabies
  • pityriasis versicolor. 

 A new prescription will be needed.

Alternatives include:

Coal tar with salicylic acid and sulphur, soln 12% with salicylic acid 2% and sulphur 4% oint (Coco-Scalp)(external link)

Coal tar with allantoin, menthol, phenol and sulphur, soln 5% with sulphur 0.5%, menthol 0.75%, phenol 0.5% and allantoin crm 2.5% (Egopsoryl TA)(external link) Egopsoryl TA is partially funded.

Out of stock by early to mid-June

Only a small amount of stock remains in the New Zealand market, and stock will likely run out in June 2025. 

We apologise for the short notice. We have been working with Midwest to source alternatives. However, this has not been possible.

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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