Iran faces shortages of 90 vital drugs as war and sanctions bite

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Iran is grappling with shortages of around 90 vital drugs, including paracetamol and insulin, as war, sanctions and inflation disrupt supply chains. Prices of essential medicines have risen up to sixfold, forcing patients to pay more than 70 percent of health costs out of pocket. The crisis deepens as the war with the United States enters its seventh month and a naval blockade tightens.
Key Facts
- Iran is experiencing shortages of around 90 drugs classified as vital or essential, according to Iranian media.
- Prices of basic medicines such as paracetamol and insulin have risen up to sixfold.
- More than 70 percent of health expenditures in Iran are paid out of pocket by patients.
- The war between Iran and the United States has entered its seventh month, with sanctions and a naval blockade worsening the crisis.
Drug Shortages
Iran's pharmaceutical sector is facing supply shortages across hundreds of drugs, including paracetamol and insulin. Iranian media report that the shortage covers approximately 90 drugs considered vital or essential. The shortages have left low-income patients unable to access necessary treatment.
Price Surge
Prices of essential medicines have increased up to sixfold amid the crisis. Patients in Iran bear more than 70 percent of health costs out of pocket, a burden that has grown heavier with inflation. The combination of war, sanctions, and inflation has left hundreds of medicines unavailable.
War and Sanctions Impact
The war with the United States has entered its seventh month, and the naval blockade is tightening. Sanctions and the blockade have deepened the pharmaceutical crisis by disrupting supply chains. The collapse of supply chains has compounded the shortages and price increases.