Pharma Industry Raises Concerns Over EU Medicine Procurement Plans

Draft legislation in the European Union aims to address chronic drug shortages by expanding joint procurement practices for medicines. According to Politico Europe, this includes critical medicines with vulnerable supply chains, particularly those dependent on single countries, as well as novel therapies not available in three or more EU nations.

These novel therapies, categorized as medicines of common interest under the proposed Critical Medicines Act, have raised alarms within the pharmaceutical industry. Industry experts express concerns that including new, branded, and often costly treatments like cell and gene therapies and cancer drugs in joint procurement could lead to unintended consequences.

Elvira, a representative in a closed-door working group, highlighted the issue of vagueness in defining a medical product of common interest. He warned that a lack of clarity could lead to an over-reliance on joint procurement as a remedy for complex problems.

Additionally, MEP Nicolas Gonzalez Casares, from the Socialists and Democrats, cautioned that while joint procurement might assist in some cases, it is not a comprehensive solution for the various root causes of drug shortages across the EU.

He emphasized the need for a broader approach to resolve the underlying issues contributing to the crisis. The pharmaceutical industry is concerned that this legislative move could impact both the availability of essential drugs and the pace of innovation, particularly for high-cost treatments that require substantial investment in research and development.

Sources indicate that addressing the supply chain vulnerabilities and ensuring equitable access to novel therapies will be critical in the successful implementation of this joint procurement strategy. With the potential for significant ramifications on drug availability and market dynamics, the implications of this legislation warrant close scrutiny as the EU moves forward in its efforts to secure a more stable pharmaceutical landscape.