Medication Shortages in France: Improvements and Ongoing Challenges

Significant Progress After Years of Shortages

After five years of critical medication shortages, the situation in France has shown marked improvement. According to a study published on March 27 by national health authorities, the number of reported shortages in 2024 has significantly declined, bringing stock levels back to pre-pandemic conditions. “The French can be reassured; the situation is getting better,” emphasized Laurence Peyraut, Director General of Leem, the professional organization representing pharmaceutical companies.

At the height of the crisis during the winter of 2022-2023, nearly 800 medications were simultaneously out of stock. By the end of 2024, that number had been halved to 400, according to data from the Directorate for Research, Studies, Evaluation, and Statistics (DREES) and the National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products (ANSM). Despite this progress, the figures remain significantly higher than those recorded in 2017, when only around 100 drugs were reported in shortage.

Addressing the Root Causes of Shortages

The rise in medication shortages over recent years has been linked to global disruptions, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. However, France is not alone in facing this issue. “This phenomenon is neither exclusive to France nor limited to medicines; it also affects medical devices,” notes the DREES report.

To mitigate future risks, Laurence Peyraut proposes several measures: establishing a unified reporting system for pharmacy stock shortages, prioritizing essential molecules, and adjusting pricing policies. “If we want to continue producing in France, we must reconsider our pricing strategy, as France currently has the lowest drug prices in Europe,” she stated. She also stressed the importance of a coordinated European approach, arguing that “French sovereignty also depends on European sovereignty.”

Persistent Challenges and High-Risk Medications

Despite the improvements, the risks of shortages remain elevated. Since 2020, pharmaceutical companies have been required to report not only confirmed stock shortages but also potential risks. At its peak in 2023, 1,500 medication presentations were at risk of running out. By the end of 2024, this number had decreased to 1,200—still a considerable level.

Some therapeutic categories remain particularly affected, with cardiovascular drugs accounting for 30% of reported shortages, followed by nervous system medications (20%), antibiotics (14%), and digestive system treatments (10%).

Impact on Pharmacies and Patients

While government regulations have kept drug prices stable, shortages have nonetheless disrupted pharmacy sales. During the winter of 2022-2023, an estimated eight million boxes of essential medicines were missing from pharmacies each month due to supply issues. This represented between 6.5% and 10% of total sales for these critical treatments.

The situation has improved, with median stock levels of at-risk medications increasing from 1.3 months in 2023 to two months today. However, authorities remain vigilant, and pharmaceutical companies continue to adapt to ensure long-term stability in medication availability. “Simplifying processes will help us resolve this complex problem in the near future,” assures Laurence Peyraut.