The Philippine Pharmacists Association-Davao City Chapter (PPHA-Davao) announced on Facebook on Wednesday, January 5, that there is no shortage of Paracetamol and other drugs for flu-like symptoms but specific brands of medicines are out of stock due to the rise in demand.
“There is no shortage of Paracetamol and other over-the-counter medicines for flu-like symptoms,” the statement read. “Rest assured that equivalent alternative branded and generic medicines are available for public consumption.”
According to another statement released by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the reported tight supply is due to the temporary out of stock of popular paracetamol brands.
“In response to the reported tight supply of some paracetamol brands, the public is hereby assured that the situation is temporary and was due to a sudden increase in demand,” the DTI statement read. “DTI has already received reports of deliveries coming in this week.”
Additionally, PPHA-Davao said that people should not hoard Paracetamol and other medicines to ensure that everyone has access to these essential goods.
“In light of the public panic on the alleged shortage, we encourage the public to avoid hoarding of these medicines to ensure access to all,” it said.
Dr. Jose G. Beltran Jr., president of the Metropolitan Davao Medical Society, said in an interview on January 4 that the demand for flu medicine may be because of the anticipated Omicron surge.
“In anticipation of the Omicron surge kay ang presentation sa Omicron is more like flu-like symptoms,” said Beltran.
To ensure the supply of Paracetamol and other medicines, Dr. Michelle Schlosser, spokesperson of Davao City Covid-19 Task Force, said that people should follow the proper intake of Paracetamol and avoid panic-buying.
“If you have fever, ang intake sa Paracetamol is every four hours until ma-resolve ang fever,” said Schlosser. “37.5 (degrees celsius) feverish na ka ana, kung mulampas ka ana, pwede ka mu-take og paracetamol every four hours.”
PPHA-Davao reminded the public to only purchase medicines from trusted pharmacists and drug stores.
“We urge the public to be vigilant on the proliferation of fake medicines from opportunistic illegal sellers.” (With reports from Ralph Lawrence G. Llemit)
