Significant shortages of key medicines are a global health issue. Drugs
recommended as a first-line treatment are often unavailable raising
concerns in patients, prescribers, and pharmacists. Among the main
factors affecting the periodical drug shortages production shortages,
and poor or temporary shortcomings in distribution are the most
frequent. Drug replacement, when possible, can result in medication
errors, and adverse reactions. National and international efforts by
drug agencies, pharmaceutical companies, and political authorities are
need to prevent these delays and guarantee the right to health for all.