Health Ministry sources say that there is a shortage of several essential drugs and a number of other drugs in the country.
Speaking to the media in this regard, Deputy Director General of Medical Supplies Dr. G. Wijesuriya said that this shortage has affected many hospitals. However, he said that steps are being taken to resolve the problem.
“There is currently a shortage of about 130 drugs in the medical supply sector and about 85 drugs in hospitals. The ministry has recommended the use of substitutes for certain drugs that are facing shortages,” he said.
In addition, he said that instructions have been given to airlift urgently needed specialized drugs.
When asked about the reasons for the shortage, Dr. Wijesuriya said that the main challenge is the lack of sufficient suppliers.
According to the pharmaceutical drug availability information management system ‘Swastha’, it has been confirmed that there is a shortage of medicines including Ampicillin Injection 500mg vial, Cloxacillin capsule 500mg, Co-Amoxiclav Dispersible Tablet 156.25mg, Cefalexin (Cephalexin) Sofurcm Injection 0, Cefurium Injection, vial, Cefepime Injection 500mg vial, Netilmicin Injection 100mg, Clarithromycin Syrup 125mg, Sodium Fusidate Tablet 250mg, Ethionamide Tablet 250mg, Trimethoprim Tablet 200mg, Pyrazinamide Tablet Cyrazinamide 250mg, Clofazimine Tablet, Ofloxacin Tablet 400 mg.