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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Politics
Denis Campbell Health policy editor

Pharmacists in England face abuse from patients due to drug shortages

Medicine counter assistant working behind a screen in Copes Pharmacy in Streatham
Two-thirds of pharmacies are dealing with shortages every day, according to the Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee Photograph: Kirsty O’Connor/PA

Pharmacy staff in England are facing growing abuse and aggression from patients frustrated that drug shortages mean they cannot get their usual medications, a survey reveals.

The hostility, including swearing and spitting, comes as availability of medicines is becoming more uncertain as a result of Brexit, the Covid pandemic and ingredient supply problems. Hormone replacement therapy drugs are in short supply in many places, affecting women undergoing menopause, for example.

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