The lack of medicines in Ibiza’ s pharmacies has started to set off alarm bells among health professionals and patients. Among the drugs affected, diabetes treatments, such as Ozempic, stand out. This problem is compounded by the shortage of drugs for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a situation that jeopardizes the continuity of essential treatments.
Local pharmacies have confirmed the lack of these key drugs and say that, so far, there is no clear date for a solution. According to some pharmacists consulted, the problem could lead to more serious consequences if the shortage persists, as many patients depend on these treatments to maintain their quality of life.
A regional problem
This shortage does not only affect Ibiza, but extends throughout the Balearic Islands. Balearic Islandsas indicated in the latest half-yearly report of the Spanish Agency of Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS). During the first six months of 2024, 4.28% of drug presentations in Spain presented some kind of supply problem, especially in drugs for the nervous system, anti-infectives for systemic use and drugs for the cardiovascular system. Although, according to the report, most of the problems do not have a significant impact on treatments thanks to the availability of alternative drugs, in some cases the lack of therapeutic alternatives in Spain is generating serious repercussions. According to the AEMPS, drugs without replacement options represent 0.33% of the total number of authorized presentations, a figure that, although small, is of concern because of its direct impact on patients’ health.
Essential medicines at risk
Among the most affected drugs in Ibiza is Ozempic, one of the most widely used treatments for type 2 diabetes and which has recently gained popularity as an appetite suppressant. The pharmacists consulted point out that this drug has been one of the most requested on the island and its absence is already generating complications in the planning of medical treatments. In addition, ADHD medications also face limited availability, which makes it difficult to control symptoms in children and adults affected by this condition. Some pharmacists have pointed out that this type of shortage is especially worrisome because, unlike other medications, those for the nervous system do not always have effective replacements on the market.
Uncertainty for the future
Professionals in the sector in Ibiza have stressed that they have no concrete estimate as to when this problem can be solved, which increases concern among patients who depend on these drugs. Although, for now, no serious consequences on the health of users have been reported, the risk of this situation being prolonged could lead to a more complicated scenario for those who need specific treatments.
