UK faces severe medicine shortages, worsened by Brexit

Drug shortages in the UK have reached their highest levels in four years, with Brexit seen as a major factor behind the crisis. In 2024, companies reported 1,938 supply disruptions to the Department of Health and Social Care, up from 1,634 in 2023. Important medications for conditions like epilepsy and cystic fibrosis are particularly affected, which raises concerns for patient health. The Nuffield Trust, a health thinktank, highlighted these issues in a recent report. They note that while medicine shortages have become a global problem, the UK situation is worsening compared to other European countries. Experts found that the UK has experienced the lowest growth in medicine imports among G7 nations, especially from the EU since Brexit. Figures show the total value of medicine imports has decreased by nearly 20% since 2015. This decline correlates with new trade barriers introduced post-Brexit. Additionally, UK exports of drugs to the European Economic Area have fallen by one-third since the 2016 referendum. Pharmacy representatives have reported a growing crisis. A survey from the National Pharmacy Association revealed that all 500 pharmacies asked cannot fill a prescription at least once a day due to unavailable drugs. This has left many patients frustrated when they cannot obtain needed medications. Experts warn that as the EU works on plans to improve its drug supply, the UK risks being left behind. The Nuffield Trust's policy analyst remarked that Brexit has likely pushed the UK out of some key European supply chains. In response, the Department of Health and Social Care stated that they are implementing measures to address ongoing global supply issues and are investing in domestic production to improve resilience.