The supply of medicines and the effect of leaving the EU
I understand that for those with health conditions that rely on regular medication, stories in the media and by lobbying organisation are very worrying.
That is one reason I will continue to do everything I can to ensure we leave the EU with a deal, which would help to avoid any such problems.
Ministers are aware of the challenges and have engaged with industry so that the supply of medicines here even in the event of a no deal exit will be uninterrupted.
Following the change of EU exit date, the Department of Health and Social Care has written to all medicine suppliers asking that they continue preparations for all negotiation outcomes.
For example, it has ensured that major pharmaceutical companies have an additional six weeks’ supply of medicines over and above their usual operational reserves by March. Ministers have asked that medicines with a short shelf-life be transported by air if necessary. Pharmacists would in addition retain the professional discretion to decide whether to issue a medicine against the shortage protocol or refer a patient back to a medical practitioner for another prescription.
However, it is also worth remembering that shortages of specific drugs can occur at any time, including when Brexit has not been a factor. This can be due to problems with manufacture or supply and can be very distressing.