The European Union is currently experiencing shortages of 16 essential medicines crucial for public health. The shortages are caused by manufacturing issues, rising demand, and pharmaceutical companies withdrawing products from the market. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) reports that 34 medicines are in short supply, 16 of which are on the EU’s critical medicines list. The European Commission aims to address this issue through the newly proposed Critical Medicines Act.
Severe Shortages of Life-Saving Medicines
Cyanide Poisoning Antidote
Cyanokit, the only EU-approved cyanide poisoning antidote containing hydroxocobalamin (vitamin B12a), has been affected by production suspension since December 2024 due to potential contamination in some batches. Although the risk is low and no alternative antidote is available, Cyanokit remains in use. The shortage is expected to be resolved by May 2025.
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin, a common antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, has faced shortages since October 2022 due to rising respiratory illnesses and staffing issues among manufacturers. While the situation has improved in most countries, intermittent supply problems continue.
Inhalers
Patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) face difficulties obtaining salbutamol inhalers and nebulizers. Manufacturers have struggled to meet increased demand, causing sporadic shortages throughout the EU. The supply issues are expected to persist until at least mid-2025.
Insulin
Certain insulin types used to manage blood sugar in diabetes patients have been affected by production issues. In early 2023, problems impacted Insuman Rapid, Basal, and Comb 25, and the manufacturer eventually discontinued these products. The EMA recommends that doctors transition patients to alternative insulin brands.
Cancer, Blood, and Mental Health Medications at Risk
Cancer Treatments
Seven cancer medications—hycamtin, methotrexate, fludarabine, fluorouracil, cisplatin, fasturtec, and paclitaxel—are in short supply. Manufacturing difficulties are the primary cause, but increased demand for methotrexate, which also treats rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and Crohn’s disease, has intensified shortages in certain areas. While some supply problems are easing, finding suitable alternatives remains a challenge.
Vaccine for Japanese Encephalitis
Ixiaro, a vaccine protecting against Japanese encephalitis, has faced shortages due to higher demand and production issues. While supply has improved, full availability is expected by April 2025, according to Irish health authorities.
Blood Disease Medication
Peginterferon alfa-2a (Pegasys), used to treat chronic hepatitis B and C, and other blood-related conditions, has been in short supply due to a sudden increase in demand. The EMA expects the supply situation to stabilize later in 2025.
Schizophrenia Treatment
Zypadhera (olanzapine), a medication for schizophrenia, has encountered supply problems related to the availability of necessary needles for injections. While oral versions are still available, the shortage continues to affect patients in some EU countries, including Belgium.
Heart, Eye, and Emergency Treatments in Short Supply
Heart Attack Prevention Drug
Integrilin, a medication used to prevent heart attacks in patients with severe chest pain or those recovering from certain types of heart attacks, is no longer produced in the EU due to shortages of its active ingredient, eptifibatide. Despite this, alternative treatments remain available.
Eye Disease Medicine
Verteporfin (Visudyne), a treatment for age-related macular degeneration and other eye diseases, has faced limited production since May 2020. Although alternative options exist, shortages persist, with Austria expecting restocks by the end of 2025.