Iranians face soaring prices for medicine as the US blockade and sanctions hit hard

TEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Medication prices in Iran are skyrocketing as a U.S. blockade and heightened sanctions cripple the country's pharmaceutical industry, leaving patients and families struggling to afford essential treatments. The annual payment for a one-year medication subscription has risen to $233.00 + GST, a 10% discount from the regular price of $259.35.

Iran's pharmaceuticals industry heavily relies on imports, with many products depending on foreign raw materials. However, the American naval blockade has disrupted shipping, forcing medical importers to resort to more expensive air routes. The sanctions on Iranian airlines have further limited international flights, complicating the supply chain.

Although Iran produces over 80% of its medicines domestically, over 40 pharmaceutical factories have been damaged or destroyed in airstrikes, impacting cancer treatment production. Cash-strapped pharmacies often struggle to maintain adequate stock, and insurance companies are lagging behind by up to nine months in payments to pharmacies for drug coverage.

The overall economic situation in Iran has worsened, with soaring food and other goods prices, rising unemployment, and a currency that has plummeted to half its value. Despite the challenges, there have been no major medicine shortages reported at hospitals, but pharmacies are experiencing difficulties in meeting patient demands.