Millions of allergy sufferers in France may face difficulties accessing a crucial medication this spring, as the manufacturer of Kenacort Retard®, a widely used corticosteroid, has warned of a potential complete stockout by May 2026. The alert stems from a production delay, prompting authorities to implement rationing measures to manage existing supplies.
As pollen season approaches – a period of misery for those with seasonal allergies – the prospect of this key treatment becoming unavailable is causing concern. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis, including a persistent runny nose, itchy eyes, and fatigue, can be debilitating, and many patients rely on medications like Kenacort Retard® to manage their condition. The situation highlights the fragility of pharmaceutical supply chains and the potential impact on public health.
According to the French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety (ANSM), Bristol-Myers Squibb informed healthcare professionals on February 17, 2026, about the supply tensions. A quantitative rationing system has been put in place, limiting the amount of the medication distributed to pharmacies to prevent a sudden depletion of stocks and ensure equitable access across the country. The laboratory states that these volumes are intended to meet national needs for the next three months.
If production does not resume as planned, a complete stockout is anticipated in pharmacies by May 2026, and in hospitals by late May. Kenacort Retard® 40 mg/1 ml is a potent anti-inflammatory drug used to treat allergic reactions and suppress excessive immune responses. It’s often prescribed for seasonal allergic rhinitis when other treatments have failed, as well as for severe dermatological conditions and certain rheumatic diseases, such as inflammatory arthritis and osteoarthritis flares.
The medication is known as “Retard” because it’s a prolonged-release formulation, meaning it gradually releases the drug into the body over several weeks after a single injection.
Photo of Kenacort Retard® © Bristol Myers Squibb
Alternatives Available, But May Require Dosage Adjustments
Bristol-Myers Squibb has indicated that several injectable corticosteroids could be considered as alternatives if Kenacort Retard® becomes unavailable. These include betamethasone, prednisolone, methylprednisolone, and dexamethasone. All these molecules belong to the same family of steroid anti-inflammatory drugs and can effectively reduce inflammation and modulate immune responses. However, they differ in their pharmacological profiles, including potency and duration of action.
Because Kenacort Retard® offers a prolonged effect lasting several weeks, switching to an alternative may necessitate adjustments to dosage or frequency of administration. Patients are advised to consult their doctor to discuss any necessary changes to their treatment plan and avoid abrupt discontinuation of therapy.
Impact on Allergy Sufferers and the Healthcare System
The potential shortage of Kenacort Retard® comes at a particularly sensitive time, as spring approaches and pollen counts are expected to rise. Allergic rhinitis affects a significant portion of the population. an estimated 20 to 25% of Canadians suffer from allergies, according to Uniprix. While the French figures are not directly stated in the source material, the impact is likely to be substantial. The disruption could place additional strain on healthcare resources as doctors seek alternative treatments and manage patients experiencing exacerbated symptoms.
The timing of the shortage also coincides with the peak pollen seasons for various plants. According to Kleenex, tree pollen is prevalent from March onwards, followed by grass pollen in April, and weed pollen later in the year. The Association pulmonaire du Québec notes that grass pollen season extends from late spring through September.
What to Expect Next
The situation remains fluid, and the availability of Kenacort Retard® will depend on the manufacturer’s ability to resolve the production delays. Healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to stay informed about updates from the ANSM and Bristol-Myers Squibb. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the medication will remain accessible to those who rely on it to manage their allergy symptoms.
This situation underscores the importance of proactive communication between patients and their healthcare providers, particularly as seasonal allergies become more prevalent. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.