In short:
An antipsychotic medication often prescribed to people with schizophrenia or bipolar is in short supply.
Pharmacists and doctors have told the ABC they were not made aware of supply issues until the issue was raised by patients who could not find refills.
What’s next?
The TGA says shortages are expected to be resolved in a few months and in the meantime, people can try and source other generic versions instead.
Almost all antipsychotics need to be tapered off. If someone suddenly stops, it can end badly for them. Add to that the facts that quetiapine is one of the most common and effective APs, the importance of treating psychosis and mood stability as effectively as possible, and most people having to do trial and error to find the right medication for them? This is a recipe for disaster.