UK ‘weeks away’ from medicine shortages if Iran war continues, experts say
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Experts warn that the UK could face medicine shortages within weeks if the Iran war continues, potentially impacting access to painkillers and cancer treatments. The conflict has disrupted the supply of crucial raw materials and impacted transport routes, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, hindering the distribution of pharmaceuticals and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). India, a major producer of generic drugs, faces challenges in exporting medications due to logistical disruptions. While the UK currently has several weeks of medicine stock, prolonged conflict could lead to shortages and increased drug prices, especially for generics, which constitute a large portion of NHS medications. Increased air freight costs, a common method of importing medicines, are also straining suppliers' already low margins.
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Key Claims (5)
AI-ExtractedOne in five NHS medicines comes in by air.
India produces 60% of generic medicines used globally.
Medical distributors typically stock six to eight weeks of stocks to avoid shortfalls.
The conflict has disrupted the supply of crucial raw materials.
Britain is “a few weeks away” from medicine shortages if the Iran war continues.
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