The National Department of Health in South Africa has confirmed that it is actively searching for and procuring alternative medicines amid the scarcity of vital medications.
A representative from the National Department of Health, Foster Mohale, told the publication IOL that the current supply issues are caused by a combination of factors. These include geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, as well as instances of non-compliance with regulatory requirements by local manufacturers under the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA).
Mohale stated that the Department is engaging with suppliers and acquiring alternative medicines from other sources to minimize the negative impact on patients. He added that until supply restrictions are lifted, some patients may temporarily switch to clinically appropriate substitute drugs for treating the same conditions.
He also emphasized that the Department will closely monitor the situation's development and work with all stakeholders to restore normal supply levels as soon as possible.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has also expressed concern over the shortage of up to fifty critical medicines. The party warned that patients might experience adverse reactions to substitute drugs or completely stop treatment.
The DA strongly urged the parliamentary Health Committee to investigate the scale of the shortage, its causes, and the measures being taken to protect patients. DA's health spokesperson, Michelle Clark, said she has requested the convening of a special committee and insists that the Minister of Health Aaron Motsoaledi, the Department of Health, SAHPRA, Pharmisa, and the South African Pharmaceutical College appear before this committee.
Clark noted the potential risks to patients when switching to alternative medication. She stressed that there is a significant risk of adverse reactions to substitute drugs, as well as a general risk that greatly concerns the DA—patient fear or confusion regarding the substitution, which could lead them to discontinue treatment.
Among the mentioned medications are amlodipine, used to control high blood pressure and prevent angina; rosuvastatin, which treats high cholesterol and reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes; and metformin, used to manage type 2 diabetes. The list also includes olanzapine for treating schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, especially manic episodes; pregabalin for relieving nerve pain, seizures, and anxiety disorders; and mebendazole, which is used against intestinal parasitic infections.