Allergy Treatment Shortage: Kenacort Retard May Be Unavailable This Spring

A crucial treatment for allergy symptoms may be unavailable to patients as early as this spring, according to its manufacturer. The situation stems from production delays impacting the supply of Kenacort Retard® 40 mg/1 ml, a widely used corticosteroid in France.

Supply Issues and Contingency Plans

On February 17, 2026, Bristol-Myers Squibb informed healthcare professionals, via the Agence du médicament (ANSM), about the supply tensions. A quantitative rationing system has been implemented, limiting the amount of the medication distributed to pharmacies. This measure aims to prevent a sudden stockout and ensure a more equitable distribution across the country.

According to the manufacturer, current supply volumes are intended to meet national demand for the next three months. However, if production does not resume, a complete stockout is anticipated in pharmacies by May 2026, and in hospitals by the end of May.

What is Kenacort Retard®?

Kenacort Retard® is a potent anti-inflammatory medication used to treat allergic reactions and suppress excessive immune responses. We see prescribed for seasonal allergic rhinitis when other treatments have failed, as well as for severe dermatological conditions and certain rheumatic diseases like inflammatory arthritis and osteoarthritis flares. The “Retard” designation indicates that the medication is formulated for prolonged release, providing effects that can last for several weeks after a single injection.

Did You Know? Kenacort Retard®’s prolonged-release formulation means its effects can last for several weeks after injection.

Alternative Treatments Available

Bristol-Myers Squibb has indicated that several alternative injectable corticosteroids could be considered if Kenacort Retard® becomes unavailable. These include betamethasone, prednisolone, methylprednisolone, and dexamethasone. All belong to the same family of steroid anti-inflammatory drugs and can effectively reduce inflammation and modulate immune responses.

However, these alternatives do not all have the same pharmacological profile, particularly regarding potency and duration of action. Because Kenacort Retard® is a prolonged-release formulation, switching to another corticosteroid may require adjustments to dosage or frequency of administration. Patients are advised to consult their doctor to discuss any necessary treatment modifications and avoid abrupt interruptions.

Expert Insight: The potential disruption in Kenacort Retard® supply highlights the vulnerability of relying on a single medication for managing chronic conditions, and underscores the importance of proactive communication between patients and their healthcare providers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What symptoms does Kenacort Retard® treat?

Kenacort Retard® is prescribed for manifestations of seasonal allergic rhinitis after other treatments have failed, certain severe skin conditions, and some rheumatic diseases like inflammatory arthritis and osteoarthritis flares.

When could Kenacort Retard® be completely out of stock?

If production does not resume, the medication could be completely out of stock in pharmacies by May 2026, and in hospitals by the end of May 2026.

Are there alternative medications available?

Yes, alternatives such as betamethasone, prednisolone, methylprednisolone, and dexamethasone may be considered, but they may require dosage adjustments due to differences in their duration of action.

As the spring allergy season approaches, will the potential shortage of this medication impact access to care for those who rely on it?