UK ‘one step away’ from medicine shortages if Iran conflict goes on

WorldHealth & Fitness
20 Mar 2026 • 7:39 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Britain has so far avoided medicine shortages linked to the conflict in the Middle East.
  • However, soaring freight costs are significantly impacting the profit margins of generic drugmakers.
  • Medicines UK warns this could soon lead to price increases for the NHS, supply shortages, or both.
  • Chief executive Mark Samuels stated that Britain is "one step away" from medicine shortages if regional instability continues.
  • Manufacturers of affordable generic drugs, which supply most NHS medicines, are struggling to absorb these increased transport expenses.

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