Iranians face a severe shortage of essential medicines and a spike in prices, according to reports sent by citizens to Iran International, as the country struggles with a deepening healthcare crisis.
The shortages affect both life-saving treatments for cancer and heart disease as well as common over-the-counter painkillers. Despite the public struggle, earlier this month, Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref said current strategic reserves are in good condition and the government ordered urgent imports.
Price increases for critical drugs have left many patients unable to afford treatment. Citizens told Iran International that the price of Xgeva, a drug used for bone cancer, rose from 15,000,000 rials ($9.38) to 420,000,000 rials ($262.50) in two months. The treatment requires an injection every two months.
In the city of Karaj, the price of Lantus insulin rose from 1,770,000 rials ($1.11) to 7,100,000 rials ($4.44). Other residents said some types of insulin now cost more than 70,000,000 rials ($43.75) following recent regional conflicts.
Cancer patients told the broadcaster that a 30-day supply of Aromasin, which previously cost 5,000,000 rials ($3.13) with insurance, now sells for 44,000,000 rials ($27.50) when available. Many patients said they cannot find imported versions and that local substitutes are not effective.
The shortages extend to basic items. Residents in Tehran said pharmacies now ration common pills like GeloFen, while elderly patients in Mashhad reported they cannot find basic antidepressants like Amitriptyline.
Medical supplies such as disposable gloves are also difficult to find in many pharmacies. Patients said they are forced to delay treatment or face financial ruin to buy medicine.
