DOH: No shortage of paracetamol, other pills; advises public not to hoard medicines

Amid reports of alleged shortage of anti-flu pills, the Department of Health on Tuesday ensured that there is enough supply of such medicines.

In a statement, the DOH said it already consulted with the major drug store chains and local manufacturers and suppliers on the status of supply of paracetamol and other pills for flu.

"The DOH would like to assure the public that while there is an observed increased demand for such products, there is no ongoing shortage in the Philippines," the DOH said.

"Paracetamol has many generic alternatives in the market, which are available in many drug stores nationwide. We are constantly monitoring the status of supply of critical medicines for COVID-19 including supportive medicines for symptomatic treatment," it added.

The DOH appealed to the public not to hoard these medicines and not resort to panic-buying as it vows to continue working with other agencies such as the Department of Trade and Industry and the Food and Drug Administration in securing the needed health products as part of the COVID-19 response.

"We would like to appeal to consumers, however, to refrain from hoarding, panic-buying or unnecessary purchases of such medications when not clinically warranted," the DOH said.

Netizens have raised concerns on social media about their difficulties to purchase paracetamol and other pills as these were out of stock in drug stores.

Trade Secretary Mon Lopez already said that there is no shortage of paracetamol in the country. — RSJ, GMA News