Medicine shortage
Medicine shortage — what it means and what to do
When supply of a medicine drops below normal demand. Officially declared when the marketing authorisation holder cannot meet projected demand at the country or EU level.
❓ Frequently asked questions
▸ Why do medicine shortages happen?
Most common causes: manufacturing problems (raw material shortage, plant failure), unexpected demand spikes, regulatory action (e.g. GMP non-compliance), or distribution issues.
▸ What should I do if my medicine is in short supply?
Don't stop the medicine yourself. Contact your pharmacist first — they often have substitutes or know neighbouring pharmacies' stock. Your doctor can prescribe an alternative if needed.
▸ How long does a typical shortage last?
Highly variable: 2-3 weeks for distribution glitches, several months for manufacturing issues, years for permanent withdrawals from the market.