Iran's pharmacies are experiencing a critical shortage of life-saving drugs due to sanctions, impacting public health significantly. Many patients are unable to afford necessary treatments.

Iran is currently experiencing a critical shortage of life-saving medications, primarily due to the reimposition of international sanctions. Although the Iranian Food and Drug Administration produces over 90% of the country's medicines, it faces significant challenges in obtaining raw materials because of import bans. This has led to a situation where many patients, especially those with serious health conditions like cancer, are unable to access necessary treatments. The sanctions, initially intended to pressure the Iranian government regarding its nuclear program, have had severe unintended consequences on public health. Experts highlight that the poorest populations are most affected, often resorting to the black market for medications, which may be expired or unregulated. Calls for international rules to ensure humanitarian exemptions and better oversight are growing, as the current sanctions framework continues to harm vulnerable populations.