French pharmacists are raising alarms over increasing drug shortages, with a recent survey by the Union of Community Pharmacists (USPO) showing that 37% of pharmacies experience daily stockouts of essential medicines. The situation has been deteriorating since 2022, with over 4,000 drugs now listed as in shortage by the National Agency for the Safety of Medicines (ANSM).
Commonly affected medications include antibiotics like amoxicillin, painkillers such as paracetamol, and treatments for chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. Pharmacists report spending up to two hours per day searching for alternatives or contacting doctors to change prescriptions.
The French government has implemented measures including a ban on the export of certain drugs and requirements for manufacturers to maintain minimum stocks. However, pharmacists argue these steps are insufficient, calling for greater transparency from pharmaceutical companies and stronger penalties for non-compliance.
Patients are advised to consult their pharmacist early if they have difficulty obtaining a prescription, as alternatives may be available. The USPO recommends that patients do not stockpile medications, which can worsen shortages.
