Full Breakdown
National Shortage of Panadol Osteo and Paracetamol Osteo-Tab Hits New Zealand
8/20/2026, 11:53:49 AM
Supply Disruption and Industry Response
A “supply disruption” identified by Haleon, the manufacturer of Panadol Osteo, has limited the availability of the 665 mg modified-release paracetamol product in pharmacies nationwide. Haleon’s spokesperson said stock is gradually returning and is expected to be back on shelves by the end of August.
AFT Pharmaceuticals, which distributes the alternative Paracetamol Osteo-Tab, also ran short after demand surged when Panadol Osteo became unavailable. Managing director Hartley Atkinson explained that the surge exhausted existing supplies, prompting the company to air-freight additional stock to New Zealand for distribution to wholesalers.
Impact on Chronic-Pain Patients
Long-acting formulations are preferred by many elderly patients because they require fewer daily doses. David Speary, who relies on Panadol Osteo for a chronic spinal condition, described the shortage as forcing him to ration his medication. He reported that when he reduced his dose, his “neck and shoulders were frozen” and he was unable to drive or perform daily activities, but returning to his usual dose restored his mobility within about a week.
Official Statements & Responses
- Haleon: Supply is improving; products will remain available provided normal purchasing continues.
- AFT Pharmaceuticals: The company apologised for the disruption, urged patients unable to find Panadol Osteo to consult pharmacists for alternatives, and confirmed the urgent air-freight of additional stock.
- Medsafe (New Zealand’s medicines regulator) classifies the 665 mg modified-release tablets as a restricted medicine, requiring pharmacist consultation to prevent dosing confusion and overdose risk.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m trying not to be stressed,” — David Speary
- “My entire neck and shoulders were frozen. I was in pain. I couldn’t do anything.” — David Speary
- “They cost me but I’m happy because they work.” — The Independent Pharmacists’ Association
These statements illustrate the personal toll of the shortage and the industry’s acknowledgment of the problem.
Outlook
Pharmacists report that the newly air-freighted supplies are being allocated to wholesalers, and the expectation is that pharmacy shelves will be restocked by the end of August. Patients are advised to speak with healthcare professionals about suitable alternatives while the supply stabilises.
