A pharmacist has warned people the UK has been hit with a medication shortage. Even popular medicines like statins and aspirin could “disappear from shelves”
Millions of people around the world take medication, and it’s super important they use it correctly at all times. However, recently, the UK and Ireland has been hit with a medicine shortage, and it’s even impacting common medications like statins and aspirin.
A pharmacist, known as Pharmacist Anum, recently drew attention to the issue in a candid video explaining exactly what’s happening, and it’s expert advice worth knowing. With so many people relying on medication to aid their health, it’s a subject they need to be clued up on so they understand what’s going on and why they could experiencing issues at pharmacies.
It’s not the first piece of advice she’s shared recently either. Just weeks ago, she also drew attention to vital information people need to know about taking statins.
In the clip, Pharmacist Anum said: “Have you recently been told that your medication is out of stock at your pharmacy? We’re having nationwide stock supply issues here at the moment, and let me explain why.
“Unfortunately, what used to be short-term, sporadic stock supply issues are now becoming long-term and regular issues. We’re even seeing common, everyday medications going out of stock, such as aspirin.”
Explaining why this is happening, she added: “Firstly, is global manufacturing issues. So here we rely quite heavily on overseas drug manufacturers to get our medications from.
“If there is an issue with the manufacturers, in say China or India, that can reflect the supply here. Secondly, the UK regulates medication prices, and the NHS often gets medications at a rock bottom price.
“When there’s a shortage of medications, manufacturers are likely to prioritise other countries where they can get more profit from selling their medication. Another issue is Brexit and logistics.
“Ever since Brexit, there have been added regulatory and supply chain pressures. Finally, just an increase in demand for some medications.
“Some medications, such as ADHD medications or weight loss medications, we’re seeing prescribed more than ever. Drug companies may not be able to keep up with the demand, therefore causing delays.”
Sometimes shortages are not just pharmacy-related issues, as they can form a part of a much bigger problem. In fact, it can be global, which is perhaps why some medications appear to be “disappearing from shelves”.
Since the video was posted, people have shared all sorts of personal stories. Many seem to have been impacted by the problem.
One said: “My medication was out of stock from March 2025 until January this year and was supposed to be back in stock after just two months.”
Another added: “Out of stocks are rife!” A third replied: “I was at the pharmacy today and they didn’t have any pain medications or support bandages.”
Meanwhile, a fourth also commented: “Yes, my statins are out of stock.” One other pharmacist also shared their thoughts, adding: “Omg this! It’s so difficult to manage when this occurs, especially right now with so many medications out of stock.”
What is happening to medication?
It’s been reported that medication shortages in the UK and Ireland are worsening, and have become a problem recently. This has been a result of manufacturing issues, raw material shortages and increased demand.
Commonly affected drugs include ADHD medication, HRT, antidepressants and insulin. Reports have also claimed Northern Ireland has been particularly affected due to logistical issues.
Other medications reported to be in low supply include co-codamol and low-dose aspirin. As well as this, pharmacists have also logged significant shortages in satins, such as atorvastatin.
As of early 2026, they continue to face immense pressure due to record medication demand and supply chain constraints, which include medications like statins. If you’re concerned about your medication at all, speak to your pharmacist or GP for further advice.
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