Last Updated on March 2, 2023 by The Health Master
Worst medicine crisis in Pakistan
Pakistan’s struggling economy is grappling with a plethora of problems, including rising food prices, record-breaking inflation, and frequent power cuts.
However, the latest challenge faced by Pakistanis is the scarcity of essential medicines and supplies, leading to a healthcare crisis.
Impact of Forex Reserves on Pakistan’s Medicine Industry
The lack of forex reserves in Pakistan has affected the country’s ability to import the necessary medicines or the active pharmaceutical ingredients used in domestic production.
As a result, local pharmaceutical manufacturers have been forced to reduce their production, leading to a shortage of drugs and medical equipment in hospitals.
Shortage of Anaesthetics and Medical Equipment in Hospitals
According to local media reports, many operation theatres are facing a shortage of anaesthetics required for sensitive surgeries, with less than a two-week stock left.
Consequently, doctors have had to postpone surgeries due to the scarcity of drugs and medical equipment.
Import Dependence of Pakistan’s Medicine Industry
Pakistan’s medicine manufacturing sector is highly dependent on imports, with nearly 95% of drugs requiring raw materials from other countries, including India and China.
Most of the drug manufacturers’ imported materials have been held up at the Karachi port due to a shortage of dollars in the banking system.
Impact on Drug Retailers and Customers
The shortage of essential drugs is not only affecting hospitals but also impacting drug retailers and customers.
The shortage of some common but important drugs, is impacting the majority of customers in Punjab, such as:
- Panadol,
- Insulin,
- Brufen,
- Disprin,
- Calpol,
- Tegral,
- Nimesulide,
- Hepamerz,
- Buscopan,
- Rivotril,
Also read: Pharma Industry announced to stop producing medicines: Pakistan
Warning of a Medicine Crisis in Pakistan
The Express Tribune’s report, citing Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers‘ Association central chairman Syed Farooq Bukhari, warns that the worst medicine crisis could occur in the country if current policies banning imports remain in place for the next four to five weeks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pakistan’s healthcare crisis due to the shortage of essential medicines and supplies is a significant concern.
The country’s import-dependent medicine industry is struggling due to a lack of forex reserves, which is leading to a shortage of drugs and medical equipment.
Immediate action is required to address this crisis and ensure that Pakistan’s healthcare system does not collapse.
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