Medicines shortage in Nepal: Problems and possible solutions

Authors

  • Regmi Bishnu Tutor/Hospital Pharmacist, Department of Pharmacology/Hospital Pharmacy, College of Medical Sciences-Teaching Hospital, Bharatapur-10, Chitwan P.O. 23, Nepal
  • Subish Palaian Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacy Practice, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates.
  • P. Ravi Shankar Professor of Pharmacology, Xavier University School of Medicine, Aruba, Kingdom of the Netherlands.
  • Mukhtar Ansari Assistant Professor, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Saudi Arabia.

Keywords:

Consequences, Healthcare, Medicine, Nepal, Shortage

Abstract

Medicines shortage is a global problem more pertinent to developing countries. In this article the authors mention the factors associated with medicine shortages, the outcomes of shortages, and probable solutions to address medicine shortages in Nepal. In a scenario of medicine shortage, the intended therapy might be replaced with alternative medicines that could be of inferior quality or higher cost or even both. This may lead to irrational use of medicines, poor patient compliance, poor outcome of therapy, increased toxicity and reduced treatment satisfaction. Timely identification of the reasons for shortage of medicines and rectifying them would help to reduce the frequency of medicines shortage and ensure a continuous supply of medicines. 

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Published

2017-01-27

How to Cite

Regmi Bishnu, Subish Palaian, P. Ravi Shankar, & Mukhtar Ansari. (2017). Medicines shortage in Nepal: Problems and possible solutions. World Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5(2), 81–83. Retrieved from https://wjpsonline.com/index.php/wjps/article/view/medicines-shortage-nepal-problems-solutions

Issue

Section

Short Communication