Pharmacy teams in England are facing severe shortages of medicines on a daily basis, according to a survey conducted by Community Pharmacy England. The survey found that 72% of pharmacy staff encounter unavailable drugs multiple times a day, with almost all experiencing supply issues at least once a week. The majority of pharmacy staff (79%) expressed concerns that these shortages are putting patients’ health at risk. The survey, which included responses from over 8,000 pharmacy owners and staff, highlighted the ongoing battle pharmacies are facing to ensure patients have access to the medications they need.
The impact of medicine supply pressures has been steadily worsening over the last year, with 91% of pharmacy owners reporting that drug supply problems have gotten worse. An overwhelming 97% of pharmacy staff have experienced frustration from patients who are unable to get their prescriptions filled, while 84% have faced aggression from patients. Janet Morrison, the chief executive of CPE, emphasized that pharmacies are facing immense pressures due to global demand for drugs outstripping availability, leaving them feeling “powerless” in the face of national and international pressures.
The Royal Pharmaceutical Society’s director for England, James Davies, warned that medicines shortages are not only disrupting treatment for patients but also destabilizing their health. He stressed the importance of drug companies collaborating more closely with the government and the public health system to strengthen the country’s supplies. While medicines shortages are a global issue, Brexit has left the U.K. particularly vulnerable, according to a report from the Nuffield Trust. The increased friction at U.K. borders following Brexit could exacerbate shortages, as the country struggles to approve as many medicines, leading to fewer alternatives available.
Currently, the U.K. is facing shortages in a variety of medications, including ADHD medicines, hormone replacement therapy, certain asthma drugs, and insulin products. Specific products facing issues include certain Eli Lilly insulins, Novo Nordisk pre-filled pens like FlexTouch Tresiba and Fiasp, as well as the blockbuster Ozempic pens. The ongoing shortages of these products have forced British police to crack down on black market sales. Despite these challenges, the Department of Health and Social Care has reassured that the majority of licensed medicines are in good supply and that supply issues can arise for various reasons, not specific to the U.K.
In response to the shortages, the government has been closely monitoring drugs and investing additional funds to ensure products continue to flow. However, the lingering impact of Brexit and global supply chain issues continue to pose challenges for pharmacies and patients. Pharmacy teams are continuing to navigate these difficult circumstances to ensure that patients have access to the medications they need for their health and well-being. As the situation evolves, it will be crucial for stakeholders to work collaboratively to address the root causes of medicine shortages and strengthen the country’s pharmaceutical supply chain.
