Pharmacists have warned that Britain should start stockpiling medicines due to Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The Independent Pharmacies Association, representing 5,000 pharmacies across England and Wales, has written to Health Secretary Wes Streeting expressing concerns over potential shortages.
Many common drugs, including aspirin, paracetamol, ibuprofen, and a range of antibiotics, rely on petroleum-based ingredients and other components sourced from the Middle East. The blockade threatens to disrupt supply chains, increase production costs, and reduce availability of essential medicines.
Chief executive Dr Leyla Hannbeck said some painkillers like co-codamol and opioids are already in short supply. She warned that tensions around the Strait of Hormuz could make an already challenging situation far worse, affecting treatments for blood pressure and cholesterol.
Dr Hannbeck also highlighted that the UK's low prices for generic medicines make it a less attractive market for manufacturers, leading to supply constraints and price spikes. She urged the government to prevent export or hoarding of the 150 medicines already in shortest supply.
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesman said the majority of licensed medicines are in good supply, and the government is investing in domestic manufacturing and offering financial incentives to strengthen resilience. They also have processes to mitigate risks, including using alternative medicines when available.
