One in three Germans affected by medicines shortages: Poll

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According to a poll released on Sunday, a third of Germans are worried about having access to medications: a shortage in medical ingredients and a scarce supply of medicine continues to plague the country's pharmaceutical industry.

According to a poll conducted by the German Medicines Manufacturers' Association (BAH) and reported on by the Merkur daily, 35% of respondents reported having trouble locating medications in the previous year. This is a rise from the 18% figure from the previous year.

There are supply shortages for 478 medicinal goods, according to the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices. Antibiotic and fever-relieving medication inventory levels are among the lowest.

Read more: Europe battles a dramatic shortage of medicine

In the same context, it was reported earlier this month that Germany has been battling a shortage in antibiotics for children, which has been worsening since the beginning of this year, even though the German Health Ministry addressed the problem and vowed to take action. 

Essential measures have been introduced by the ministry such as permitting local authorities to purchase the medicines in an unbureaucratic manner when necessary from abroad.

Since late 2022, EU countries have reported substantial difficulties obtaining key vital pharmaceuticals, with the majority now experiencing shortages.

Antibiotics in short supply include amoxicillin, which is used to treat respiratory infections. Other drug groups, such as cough syrup, children's paracetamol, and blood pressure medication, are similarly hard to find.

What's behind the shortage is a combination of rising demand and decreased supply. Inflation and the rising energy crisis have also weighed on pharmaceutical firms, affecting supplies.

Read more: European paediatrician's outcry over shortage of medicine