Every chemist across Ireland has been impacted by the escalating issue of drug shortages in the past few months, as per a study conducted by the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU). More than 80% of pharmacists predict these shortages to worsen in the forthcoming year.
The IPU, representing 2,300 pharmacists from 1,800 local pharmacies throughout the country, emphasized the urgency of implementing a serious shortage protocol in line with the current legislation progressing through the Oireachtas.
The Health Miscellaneous Provisions Bill 2024 would permit the Health Minister to establish a procedure where pharmacists can substitute suitable medicines for patients without the need for approval from the prescribing doctor.
“By doing so, the process will be significantly expedited for both pharmacists and doctors, critically ensuring patients receive their necessary medicines more swiftly,” Clare Fitzell, IPU’s chief of strategic policy, remarked.
A recent IPU survey of its members just prior to its national conference in Athlone discovered that medication shortages had affected all chemists in the last four months. Furthermore, around 57% faced difficulties obtaining supplies of 40 distinct drugs.
Almost two-thirds of pharmacists suggest constraints imposed by manufacturers as the primary reason for medication shortages.
“Every drug in short supply has patients relying on it for their overall health,” Ms Fitzell stated. Medicines that have been scarce this year have comprised certain steroidal creams for treating eczema, ADHD medication, and Ozempic.
“The drug availability problem may potentially impact medical conditions, causing considerable stress and inconvenience to patients,” Ms Fitzell added.
The IPU reported that in 2018, pharmacists dedicated between five and ten hours a month to managing supply shortages. This number has now soared to 20 hours a month.
“Highly experienced pharmacists collaborate with prescribers to find alternatives when necessary,” Ms Fitzell explained. “Nonetheless, this process can be time intensive for healthcare providers and excessively protracted for patients.
“It’s a worldwide issue, so we must examine what Ireland can manage and implement this solution swiftly.”