Kogumine valmis
A highly important combination of HIV medication is becoming increasingly rare in Germany. It is called Emtricitabin/Tenofovirdisoproxil. This combination is used in ongoing HIV therapies as well as for HIV prevention through pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Consequently, well-functioning treatments must be altered, with potential side effects. As a PrEP medication, this combination is the only one approved in Germany. The shortage is particularly critical for salvage therapies, where medications with this combination of active ingredients represent the last option for individuals with HIV, leaving them with no alternative.
Selgitus
As a user of this medication combination, this directly affects me. The shortage has been looming for an extended period, providing ample time for action, and specialists and associations have long warned of such a situation. The Federal Ministry of Health (BMG) has finally responded and officially declared a supply shortage according to §79 para. 5 of the Medicines Act (AMG) on February 1st. This facilitates imports. However, it's crucial not to forget that other countries are also facing shortages, and many nations can barely meet their own markets' demands. The BMG must advocate an end to the health insurance companies' cost-cutting practices through discount agreements and ensure the domestic production of life-saving medications. Germany has the lowest prices for generics, which adversely affects those with HIV and HIV prevention efforts. An increase in HIV new infection numbers is expected if the situation does not quickly stabilize. The BMG must assume its responsibility and promptly intervene to prevent a recurrence of such a situation.
