January 2026
January in the Dispex WhatsApp Group: Real Questions, Real Answers, Real Support
January was a busy month in the Dispex WhatsApp community, with members using the group exactly as intended: to sense-check decisions, share live operational challenges, and help each other save time and money in an increasingly complex dispensing environment.
Everyday dispensing questions – answered in minutes
The month kicked off with quick peer support on dispensing systems, as members clarified whether dispenser limits relate to item numbers or hours. Simple questions, fast answers, and a reminder of how useful it is to have nationwide experienced colleagues on hand when you’re second-guessing yourself mid-day.
Pricing pressures and prescribing strategy
Several discussions focused on drug pricing and margin protection, including testosterone undecanoate, where one user highlighted ICB recommendations to switch brands due to a significant price difference. These conversations highlight how things are managed in different locations.
Similarly, later in the month members shared real-world experiences of ICB scrutiny around branded vs generic prescribing, particularly for dapagliflozin/Forxiga-raising important points about consistency, justification, and the commercial realities of dispensing practices.
Shortages and practical workarounds
Ongoing medicines shortages were a recurring theme. In January alone, members discussed:
- The unexpected aspirin shortage and how teams were handling FP10s.
- Ongoing supply issues with Fluorouracil 5% cream, with several practices sharing that they had switched to Tolak 4% cream due to availability.
- Vitamin D challenges following confirmation that Sunvit D3 contains peanuts, alongside the end of the Natecal MDS deal-prompting an open discussion about viable, profitable alternatives.
- Questions around inclisiran profit/loss breakdowns were also raised, with members signposted to detailed guidance to support informed decision-making.
These are exactly the kinds of issues where shared experience saves hours of individual investigation.
Smarter wholesaler and procurement models
One of the most active threads focused on e-CASS, with members openly comparing it to traditional single-wholesaler models. Feedback covered delivery logistics, workload impact, price transparency, and time savings.
Comments ranged from cautious questions to enthusiastic endorsements, with one member noting that it “saves me hours of time searching for the best prices.” Dispex also shared a direct link to help members connect with the right e-CASS team quickly.
Training, supervision and staff development
January also saw thoughtful discussion around training requirements, including Buttercups supervision expectations and Dispex training sessions. Members supported each other with practical explanations, while Dispex clarified options for those unable to attend live sessions and highlighted alternatives such as on-site tailored training.
Why this group matters
What stands out from January isn’t just the range of topics-it’s the tone. The group is collaborative, honest, and grounded in real dispensing practice. Questions are answered without judgement, experiences are shared openly and no one is left feeling like they’re tackling issues alone. If you’d like to be part of the conversation, now is the time to join!
Members can login here to join.
