Seyed Vahid Shari'at, President of the Iranian Scientific Association of Psychiatrists, spoke about the concerning situation of the shortage of psychiatric medications in the country and emphasized that this shortage has dangerously impacted the lives of patients. He noted that he cannot recall such a severe shortage of psychiatric medications in recent years, adding: "Currently, patients must accept the risk of changing their medications, which can lead to an additional psychological burden for them."
Lack of Domestic and Foreign Medications
Shari'at stated that foreign psychiatric medications have not been available in the market for a long time, and most of the shortages are related to domestically produced medications. Despite the fact that a significant portion of psychiatric medications is produced in the country, these medications are also facing shortages. He attributed the main cause of this issue to the domestic production's dependence on the supply of raw materials from abroad.
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Specific Medications and the Consequences of Their Shortage
The President of the Iranian Scientific Association of Psychiatrists discussed the details of the medications that are in shortage, saying: "Antidepressants such as venlafaxine, duloxetine, sertraline, and mirtazapine, as well as antipsychotic medications, especially long-acting medications, are currently unavailable."
He continued: "Many patients who are dependent on specific medications like clomipramine are facing serious problems. This medication is prescribed for individuals with treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder, and there is no substitute for it. Lack of access to this medication can have dangerous consequences for patients."
Shari'at also pointed out the problems arising from these shortages, adding: "Many patients may be forced to switch to other medications or discontinue their medications, which can lead to a relapse of their illness and increased mental health issues. Decreased functioning, distancing from work and family, and even hospitalization are among the consequences of this situation."
He emphasized that medication shortages in the field of psychiatry existed before the imposed war, but currently, these shortages have significantly increased. Shari'at stated: "Previously, a medication might face a shortage for a few months, but currently, none of the medications in shortage have been supplied."
The concerning situation of psychiatric medications in Iran can create serious challenges for patients and doctors, highlighting the need for urgent attention and action from officials.
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