Bicillin shortage information for health professionals

There is an ongoing national shortage of Pfizer Bicillin L-A (benzathine benzylpenicillin tetrahydrate) prefilled syringes (600,000 units per syringe and 1.2 million units per syringe) that is expected to continue into 2024.  

Clinicians, pharmacies and health services providing care to patients with conditions that typically require treatment or prevention with benzathine benzylpenicillin are recommended to conserve adequate stock for priority conditions and groups and consider the use of appropriate alternative antibiotic agents in suitable patients.  

For more information on the national shortage of Pfizer Bicillin L-A, the Western Public Health Unit (WPHU) recommends reviewing guidance and further advice for clinicians that has been developed by the Victorian Department of Health, which is available by clicking here.

If you have a patient for whom benzathine benzylpenicillin is the only suitable medication and you experience difficulty with access, the WPHU medical team are available to provide advice and assistance with obtaining supply and can be contacted during business hours on 1800 497 111.