Access to medications

Early day motion 303, tabled 19 January 2024 by Jon Trickett (Labour). Signed by 17 members.

That this House expresses its dismay at reports that there is a shortage of diabetes and other medication in the UK; notes that some GP surgeries are unable to prescribe the type 2 diabetes drug Ozempic at all due to shortages; further notes that this shortage has been linked with the drug being used off-prescription by people without diabetes for weight loss purposes; highlights the awful situation those with diabetes have been put in, including a constituent in Hemsworth who has been left without diabetes medication since September 2023; further highlights media reports that some medications will face shortages until the end of 2024; notes the Association of Independent Multiple Pharmacies statement which said the shortage of medication to treat the likes of epilepsy, ADHD and diabetes, as well as some cancer drugs and hormone replacement therapy was the worst that we have ever seen; also notes the National Pharmacy Association’s warning that this has led to community pharmacy teams being put under pressure with some patients rationing medication; highlights the fact that drugs such as Ozempic are being sold online for nearly £200, 1765% more than the cost of an NHS prescription; and ,whilst noting that a new “National Patient Safety Alert” has been issued by NHS England and the Department for Health and Social Care to address supply, urgently calls on the government to address the shortage and ensure the pharmaceuticals industry provides medication to those who need it.

Signatures by party: Labour 6, Independent 4, Liberal Democrat 3, Scottish National Party 2, Green 1, Labour/Co-operative 1.