UK Pharmacies Face Widespread Shortages of Aspirin: What Patients Need to Know

Original article courtesy of Jane Kirby, Press Association Health Editor

UK pharmacies are experiencing widespread shortages of aspirin, used to help prevent heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease.

Key points:

• UK pharmacies are experiencing widespread shortages of aspirin, used to help prevent heart attacks and strokes.

• The Government added aspirin to its export ban list to protect domestic supplies.

• A National Pharmacy Association survey found that 86% of pharmacies were unable to supply aspirin in the past week.

• Low-dose 75mg aspirin is most affected; pharmacies are rationing supplies and reducing over-the-counter sales.

• The price of aspirin has risen sharply, from 18p last year to £3.90 this month, while NHS reimbursement remains £2.18 per packet.

• Manufacturing delays and low reimbursement rates are contributing to shortages.

• Pharmacy bodies are calling on the Government to reform reimbursement rules and allow pharmacists more flexibility in supplying alternatives.

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Impact on people with kidney conditions:

“The shortage also affects people with chronic kidney disease, who can be prescribed low‑dose aspirin to help reduce risk of strokes and heart attack.” — Fiona Loud, policy director at Kidney Care UK

If you are concerned about your medication or the impact of these shortages on your health, please speak to your GP or local pharmacist for advice.

What action can you take today?

• A – Ask your pharmacist or GP: If your aspirin prescription is affected, speak to your pharmacist or GP for advice on alternatives.

• C – Check your supplies: Keep track of your medications, especially if you have heart conditions or chronic kidney disease.

• K – Keep healthy habits: Maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce risk factors for heart disease and stroke.

• E – Educate yourself: Learn about safe use of aspirin and other medications. Follow trusted sources like ACKEE for kidney health information.

• E – Engage with your community: Share important health updates and encourage friends and family to speak to healthcare professionals if they are affected.
  

How you can support ACKEE:

• Share – Spread this blog and ACKEE’s work to raise awareness about kidney health and medication access.

• Donate – ACKEE’s work is only possible thanks to supporters like you. Kidney disease disproportionately affects the African Caribbean community, and many still lack access to information and support. Make a donation today. Your generous support helps ACKEE provide education and resources to the African Caribbean community