Arabic version: المملكة المتحدة تواجه نقصًا في الأدوية بسبب الصراع المستمر في إيران

Experts warn that the UK is “a few weeks away” from potential medicine shortages if the ongoing conflict in Iran continues. Disruptions to air and sea shipments have already begun affecting the supply of essential health products, which could lead to rising prices for medications ranging from painkillers to cancer treatments. According to The Guardian, the conflict has significantly impacted the availability of crucial raw materials like oil and gas, which are vital for the pharmaceutical industry.

David Weeks, the Texas-based director of supply chain risk management at Moody’s, described the situation as a “perfect storm.” He noted that restrictions around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route, have compounded challenges for pharmaceutical companies, particularly those dependent on Indian suppliers for generic drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).

Mark Samuels, chief executive of Medicines UK, emphasized that while the UK is not facing an immediate crisis, the situation could escalate if the conflict persists. Currently, medical distributors maintain a stock of six to eight weeks to prevent shortages, but prolonged disruptions could quickly deplete these reserves.

The US-Israel war on Iran has also led to increased air freight costs, impacting the delivery of about 20% of NHS medicines that arrive by air. With suppliers facing historically low margins, there is concern that some medications could become unprofitable to provide to the NHS, leading to potential price increases, particularly for GP practices and pharmacies.

Experts suggest that while supplies are currently “not disrupted, but disturbed,” the longer the conflict continues, the more likely it is that drug manufacturers will pass increased costs onto consumers. The overall implications for the healthcare system could be significant, with patients ultimately bearing the financial burden of rising medication prices.