Home / Business and Economy / Patients Scramble as Iran's Medicine Supply Dries Up
Patients Scramble as Iran's Medicine Supply Dries Up
30 Sep
Summary
- Some medicines have more than tripled in price due to sanctions.
- Imported raw materials and air routes are blocked by U.S. actions.
- Financial sanctions hinder even legal pharmaceutical transactions.
Iran's pharmaceutical sector is under immense pressure from stepped-up U.S. sanctions and blockades, resulting in critically high medication prices and difficult-to-find treatments. Some essential medicines have seen their costs increase by more than 350%, severely impacting patients and their families. This economic strain is exacerbated by rising unemployment and a devalued currency.
While Iran produces over 80% of its medicines, many require imported raw materials. The U.S. naval blockade has cut off traditional sea routes, forcing reliance on more expensive air transport. However, new U.S. sanctions on Iranian airlines have threatened these aerial supply lines. Even legally permissible transactions are often blocked by international banks fearing sanctions violations.
Airstrikes have also damaged over 40 pharmaceutical factories, further diminishing production capacity. Pharmacies are struggling to maintain stock, with insurance companies facing significant payment delays. Some medicines are also being smuggled to neighboring countries for higher profits, straining domestic supplies.
Essential treatments for conditions like kidney dialysis and psychiatric disorders are becoming scarce. While hospitals appear to be prioritized, outpatient pharmacies and individual patient access are severely affected. Families of cancer patients are concerned about delayed chemotherapy treatments and the availability of crucial vaccinations.
