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Hospital drug shortage hits dementia patient care
2 Sep
Summary
- New Cross Hospital lacked Galantamine for 48 hours.
- National Pharmacy Association reports year-long drug shortages.
- Government engages globally to bolster medication supplies.
Medication shortages are severely affecting patient care, particularly for those with dementia. New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton confirmed a critical absence of Galantamine for the initial 48 hours of a patient's hospital stay. This situation highlights broader concerns within the UK's healthcare system.
The National Pharmacy Association has reported that shortages impacting a range of drugs have been ongoing for approximately one year. These issues are attributed to global supply chain disruptions and the UK's inherently fragile medicine supply chain, posing a significant risk to patient safety.
In response, the Department of Health has issued guidance to the NHS, advising clinicians on managing these shortages and identifying suitable alternative medications. The government is also actively engaging with other countries to strengthen supplies and is committed to enhancing domestic manufacturing capabilities.
