Medication Shortages in the Netherlands: A Growing Crisis with Dire Consequences
The Netherlands is grappling with a mounting crisis as medication shortages lead to severe patient harm, including irreversible damage. A recent preliminary study by the College ter Beoordeling van Geneesmiddelen (CBG) and a master’s student at the University of Groningen has shed light on the alarming consequences of these shortages. The findings, published in Pharmaceutisch Weekblad, reveal harrowing cases that underscore the urgent need for action.
One particularly distressing case involved a patient who suffered a 40 percent irreversible loss of kidney function after no choice treatment was available for a urinary tract infection. Hospitalization followed,but the use of an intravenous antibiotic led to further complications. Another case highlighted the delayed treatment of a patient with aggressive lymphoma, a cancer affecting the lymphatic system, due to the unavailability of alternative medication.
The study, which surveyed 281 healthcare professionals, including prescribers, pharmacists, and administrators, found that 24 percent of public pharmacies and 20 percent of hospital pharmacies reported medication-related accidents or near-misses occurring “frequently.” Respondents were drawn from subscribers to Praktijkprikkels, a reporting system for medication incidents (Voorkomen Medicatie-Incidenten, VMI), and participants recruited via social media.
Researchers identified the substitution of medications with alternatives of different strengths as the greatest risk. Changes in drug form or administration methods also contributed to errors, often resulting in incorrect dosages. These findings highlight the complexities and dangers of managing medication shortages in clinical settings.
| Key Findings | Details |
|——————|————-|
| Irreversible Harm | 40% kidney function loss in one patient due to lack of alternatives |
| Treatment Delays | Aggressive lymphoma treatment delayed due to medication unavailability |
| pharmacy Reports | 24% of public and 20% of hospital pharmacies report frequent incidents |
| Primary Risk | Substitution of medications with alternatives of different strengths |
Experts are calling for further research to fully understand the scope of the problem and develop strategies to mitigate its impact. The study, though not representative, provides a stark reminder of the human cost of medication shortages.As the netherlands faces this growing crisis, healthcare professionals and policymakers must work together to ensure patients receive the care they need. The findings underscore the importance of addressing medication shortages with urgency and precision.
For more insights into the impact of medication shortages, explore the full study published in Pharmaceutisch weekblad.
