Hay-fever pill shortage hits High Street chemists

High Street chemists have run out of some hay-fever medicine, as a UK industry-wide shortage hits supplies.

Stocks of chlorphenamine maleate, the active ingredient in brands such as Piriton, are widely limited, Boots says.

The chain said it still had a large range of other hay-fever medicines in stores and online.

Pollen counts will remain medium to high across much of the UK this week, the Met Office says.

A Boots official said: "There are a very small number of lines that are currently out of stock due to a current, industry-wide shortage of the active ingredient.

"However, we are expecting this to be resolved soon and new deliveries are expected in the coming weeks."

Some hay-fever medication, including chlorphenamine, can cause drowsiness.

Those affected should avoid driving, riding a bike and using tools or machinery.

As well as a variety of pills, shops sell nasal sprays and eye drops that can relieve symptoms, such as itchy eyes and runny nose.