Drug shortages reported in Cyprus health system

The Health Insurance Organization (HIO) has reported shortages of three critical medications within the General Healthcare System (GHS). The affected drugs include Carbimazole 5mg for hyperthyroidism and Graves' disease, expected back in stock on January 1, 2027. Seroquel XR 50mg, used for bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and depression, is unavailable until June 10, 2026, with no alternative supply found yet. Epirubicin, an injectable drug for cancer treatments such as breast cancer, is also experiencing temporary shortages. While the HIO attributes the situation to supplier failure and late notifications, it has initiated emergency procedures to secure alternatives. Physicians are required to issue new prescriptions to ensure patient needs are met. The HIO is actively working to resolve these gaps despite the long wait times for specific medications.