Averting Shortage Of Medicines.

The government has finally taken notice of the shortage of medicines in the country, as desperate people raise hue and cry to save their loved ones. The shortage particularly concerns Tocilizumab (Actemra) and Remdesivir injections, which are used for management of COVID-19 patients showing particular symptoms. While previously authorised distributors claimed unavailability, the injections were in fact being sold on the black market for exorbitant prices. High demand and limited supply meant that illegal dealers are charging whatever they like for the drugs.

Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health Dr Zafar Mirza has warned of grave consequences for such elements; it is hoped that words will lead to action. The fact is that the government dropped the ball on this instance. The good measures that it has taken now, which includes market authorisation for two importers and 12 local manufacturers of Remdesivir and allowing import from the US instead of Japan only, should have been taken at the outset of the coronavirus outbreak. The government should also investigate that despite the arrival...