GEORGE TOWN: Pharmacists and medical specialists say that prolonged conflict in the Middle East could trigger disruptions in the supply of both original and generic medicines, raising concerns over future availability.
Pharmacist Tan Choon Thai, 47, said supply chains have already begun to slow down due to shortage of raw materials.
He added that Malaysian suppliers rely heavily on imports from Europe and India, making them vulnerable to external “shocks”.
He said certain medications for cardiovascular conditions, diabetes and other non-communicable diseases are among those seeing disruptions.
“Current stock can last for about three months, so it is still under control for now,” he said, though he cautioned that the situation could worsen if the conflict is prolonged.
“Prices may also increase but at this stage, there will be no significant price increase directly resulting from the Middle East conflict,” he said.
Consultant physician and nephrologist Datuk Dr Carl KK Tan said doctors and hospitals are monitoring the situation closely.
“Any disruption in raw material supply, manufacturing or shipping can eventually affect the availability and pricing of certain medications, medical devices and consumables,” he said.
He added that from the clinical side, the main worry is not just outright shortages but also delays in replenishment, limited brand choices and rising costs.
Even when alternatives are available, he said, switching is not always straightforward, especially for patients who are stable on long-term treatment or when specific consumables are needed for particular procedures.
Dr Tan said the impact may vary between centres and suppliers so far, but the concern is real.
“Healthcare providers usually try to manage this by planning stock more carefully, identifying suitable substitutes early, and prioritising essential items to avoid disruption to patient care.
“Ultimately, continuity of treatment is the most important issue.
“Any prolonged supply chain instability can place added pressure on doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and patients,” he said.
A specialist at a public hospital here, who declined to be named, said vendors had mentioned that prices would increase due to the difficulties in transportation through the Middle East.
“But so far, we are not facing any problems in supplies yet in terms of surgery consumables like sutures, drapes and medications,” he said.
Oncologist Datuk Dr Mohamed Amir Shah Abdul Aziz said there is no disruption in the supply of most cancer drugs for now.
“Most of our cancer medicines are from Australia and India, as well as within the country, so there are no worries about the stocks,” he said.
He added that the prices of the medicines might increase slightly, albeit not significantly, due to the hike in shipping fees.
