German pharmacies are anticipating potential medicine supply challenges throughout the upcoming winter season. Thomas Preis, President of the Federal Association of German Pharmacists’ Associations (ABDA), stated to “Bild am Sonntag” that the issue of drug shortages has become an ongoing concern for pharmacies.
Preis emphasized that patients are the primary affected group, with over 500 medications officially listed as difficult to obtain and some experiencing actual supply shortages. Specific areas of concern include antibiotics in liquid form for children, the asthma medication Salbutamol and medications used to treat ADHD. Preis indicated that the supply of fever, cold and cough medicines is currently secure.
The ABDA attributes these shortages to a reliance on manufacturing facilities located outside of Europe. Preis highlighted that Germany, formerly a major global pharmaceutical supplier, now depends on production in countries like China and India. Manufacturing disruptions in those regions directly impact supply across Europe and within Germany.
Furthermore, Preis strongly criticized online pharmacies operating from abroad, accusing them of disrupting the system by selectively purchasing medications. He asserted that these foreign vendors frequently disregard German drug price regulations, acting with impunity while regulatory oversight remains insufficient. He called for greater state intervention to ensure compliance.