Tehran: An official at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of Iran has stated that sanctions are the primary reason behind the shortage of essential medicines, including Vimizim and Naglazyme, in the country. Mina Azhough, the deputy director of the FDA’s Department of Medicines and Controlled Substances, highlighted this issue following public complaints about the absence of these drugs.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Azhough expressed concern over the critical shortage of these vital medicines, acknowledging the potential severe impact on patient health due to delays. She explained that the sanctions have disrupted the process of importing or supplying these medicines, as financial transactions with European and American manufacturers have become exceedingly difficult.

Azhough pointed out that despite the FDA’s efforts, including the allocation of necessary foreign exchange to the importing domestic company, the challenges persist. She emphasized that the issue extends beyond Vimizim and Naglazyme, affecting a range of other special drugs facing similar import difficulties.

The official assured that the FDA is actively engaging with relevant departments to resolve the issue, aiming to provide patients with timely access to their essential medications. Vimizim is crucial for treating mucopolysaccharidosis type IVA, while Naglazyme is used for mucopolysaccharidosis type VI, both of which are serious inherited metabolic diseases.

Economic sanctions, primarily led by the United States in recent years, have significantly impeded the supply of necessary medicines for patients with chronic conditions in Iran.