Opinions of pharmacists in Turkiye on drug shortages and effects on treatment

Abstract Drug shortage is defined as a lack of supply of a medicinal product that affects the patient's ability to access the necessary treatment when they need it. The origins of this deficiency are complex and varied, and both supply and demand can cause the problem. Drug shortages affect every stakeholder of the health system, and collaborative efforts are needed to manage and reduce deficiencies. This study determined the reasons for the drug shortages, their incidence, the most affected drug groups, the precautions taken, and their effects on treatment. The research is in a survey model and quantitative type. A questionnaire form prepared by the researchers was used as a data collection tool in the study. The questionnaire form was sent to community and hospital pharmacists via the Internet. Volunteers were asked to participate. 107 people, including 90 community pharmacists and 17 hospital pharmacists, participated in the research. In our study, the participants listed the essential causes of drug shortage as problems in the supply of raw materials (78.5%), production problems (53.3%), and increased demand for some drugs (29%). Early warning systems should be developed and integrated into relevant processes, ensuring a consistent supply of drugs to prevent drug shortages. Ensuring this structure requires the cooperation of all professionals, institutions, and organizations involved in the national and international health system.