Medication Shortages in France: Updates on Gastrografine, Kenacort & More (Feb 2026)

France is currently experiencing a number of pharmaceutical supply challenges, impacting both hospital and community pharmacies. Recent reports from the Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé (ANSM) – the French national agency for the safety of medicines and health products – detail new disruptions and updates to the availability of several key medications. These shortages underscore the ongoing complexities within the pharmaceutical supply chain and the need for proactive measures to ensure patient access to essential treatments.

The ANSM’s latest updates, released between February 17th and 19th, 2026, highlight issues ranging from complete unavailability to potential stockouts and supply tensions. Several medications across various therapeutic areas are affected, prompting concerns among healthcare professionals and patients alike. Understanding these challenges is crucial for effective patient care and resource management within the French healthcare system. The situation is particularly concerning as it affects medications distributed through both hospital and community pharmacy channels.

Medication Shortages: A Detailed Overview

Several medications are facing significant availability issues. GASTROGRAFINE, a solution used in medical imaging, is currently unavailable for an indefinite period, according to the ANSM. KENACORT RETARD 40 mg/1 mL, a suspension injectable used for its anti-inflammatory properties, is at risk of stockout. Bristol Myers Squibb has informed healthcare professionals that volume allocations to wholesalers will be reduced starting in February 2026, a measure intended to align with national needs, but potentially exacerbating supply concerns. Alternatives for Kenacort Retard are available in France, according to the company.

Propranolol 40 mg, a beta-blocker commonly used to treat high blood pressure and other conditions, is experiencing persistent tension in community pharmacies, even as hospital supply remains unaffected. Specifically, Accord and Teva brands are currently out of stock, with Arrow, Biogaran, and EG Labo experiencing supply tensions. The ANSM anticipates the medication will be back in stock sometime in 2026, but advises limiting new prescriptions and suggests the possibility of compounding pharmacies preparing 20mg or 40mg formulations.

QUINIMAX 125 mg, used to treat malaria and other conditions, is under tension and is expected to remain so until May 2026. The TARKA LP range (180 mg/2 mg, 240 mg/2 mg, and 240 mg/4 mg), a combination medication for hypertension, is facing a complex situation. TARKA LP 180 mg/2 mg boxes of 30 and 90 are currently out of stock, with availability expected at the finish of March/beginning of April 2026. TARKA LP 240 mg/2 mg (90-count box) is experiencing tension and quantitative rationing, with a projected availability of March 1st, 2026, while the 30-count box is out of stock with a similar anticipated restock timeframe. TARKA LP 240 mg/4 mg (90-count box) is out of stock in community pharmacies, with a restock expected at the end of March/beginning of April 2026; the 30-count box is experiencing tension and quantitative rationing with the same restock timeframe.

Access to VISUDYNE: Revised Patient Criteria

Access to VISUDYNE, a photosensitizer used in the treatment of certain eye conditions, is undergoing changes to its allocation process. The ANSM, in collaboration with Cheplapharm France and the Société Française d’Ophtalmologie (SFO), has revised the criteria for patient eligibility. The updated guidelines, released on February 18th, 2026, prioritize patients with chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) or resistant polyps who have limited visual acuity (8/10 or worse) in the affected eye, regardless of the acuity in the other eye. Patients with hemangiomas, where proton therapy is not feasible, and similar visual acuity limitations also qualify.

To address supply constraints, a “half-dose” sharing protocol has been implemented, allowing a single vial to be used for two successive patients, provided strict aseptic conditions are maintained. An emergency access process has been established, requiring ophthalmologists to submit a request to the laboratory ([email protected]) with a completed form, receiving a unique code to include on the prescription. Pharmacists then contact the laboratory’s distributor ([email protected]) with the necessary details to facilitate expedited delivery within 48-72 hours. If a patient does not meet the new criteria, ophthalmologists are advised to contact the laboratory for a case-by-case evaluation.

These ongoing medication shortages and evolving access protocols highlight the importance of proactive communication and collaboration between healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies, and regulatory agencies. Continued monitoring of the situation and adaptation of strategies will be essential to mitigate the impact on patient care.

Disclaimer: This information is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

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