Drug-buying agency Pharmac says there is no need for New Zealanders to stock-pile a medicine for hyperthyroidism.
The comment follows a report from Australia about measures being taken there amid a worldwide shortage of a key drug.
About 8000 New Zealanders use carbimazole, sold as Neo-Mercazole, to treat an over-active thyroid gland, or hyperthyroidism.
Pharmac says the British manufacturer has closed a factory, sparking a global shortage.
Australian patients have been told to work out how much they have left and apply for more.
However, Pharmac says there is no need here for similar measures or stock-piling by patients. It says stocks are sufficient to last until mid December and more will arrive in mid November.
It also says it is working closely with suppliers to ensure stocks are evenly distributed throughout the country.
