Group: Some areas having ‘temporary shortage’ of paracetamol brands

MANILA, Philippines — Some areas are experiencing a “temporary shortage” of certain paracetamol brands, the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP) said Tuesday as it urged the public to look for “appropriate alternatives.”

“With the heightened vigilance against the Omicron variant, and a number of people getting sick due to various reasons, we are experiencing a temporary shortage of certain brands of paracetamol in some areas,” PHAP said in a statement.

“Paracetamol is available in various dosage forms and strengths, combination products, and under several hundred brands. Alternative analgesics are also available. At the moment, we have enough supply of analgesics available in our inventory,” the group added.

PHAP urged the public to consult their doctors and pharmacists for “appropriate alternatives if they are experiencing a temporary shortage of paracetamol in their localities.”

“We also call on them to buy only the needed number, and not overstock, because medicines have a limited shelf life or expiration date, and to consider other patients who may need them more,” the group added.

The Department of Health (DOH) earlier assured the public that there is “no ongoing shortage” of paracetamol and other medicines for flu-like symptoms in the country.

The DOH, however, cautioned against “hoarding, panic-buying or unnecessary purchases” of such products.

“Paracetamol has many generic alternatives in the market, which are available in many drug stores nationwide,” the DOH added.

PHAP, for its part, said it is closely coordinating with the government on “pharmaceutical security” and has “provided recommendations to ensure the uninterrupted supply of medicines in the country.”

JPV