Supply chain issues of a critical anti-psychotic drug, are expected to last until the end of the year

Health officials are rushing to resolve a supply crunch of olanzapine , an injection which helps manage schizophrenia symptoms.

Around 2-thousand Kiwis used the drug last year -- with Maori and Pasifika making up 40 percent of patients.

Royal College of Psychiatrists New Zealand chair Hiran Thabrew , says Pharmac have been updating them consistently to keep them aware of the shortage.

He says they're also looking to make aripiprazole available as a substitute to those who need depot medication.