France's Medication Shortages Show Improvement but Remain a Public Health Concern

A new report highlights a decline in shortages since 2023, yet 400 essential medications were still unavailable at the end of 2024.

Medication shortages in France peaked during the winter of 2022-2023, with 800 essential drug presentations simultaneously unavailable.
As of late 2024, the number of shortages has decreased to approximately 400 presentations, indicating progress but still reflecting historically high levels.
Essential medications, including antibiotics and anticancer drugs, remain disproportionately impacted, with limited alternatives exacerbating risks to patient health.
Global supply chain disruptions and increased demand are identified as primary causes, with raw material shortages playing a minimal role.
Regulatory enforcement has intensified, resulting in fines for non-compliant pharmaceutical companies, while stock levels have improved modestly.