site.btaHealth Minister Extends Ban on Export of Insulin Drugs, Antibiotics for Children

Health Minister Hristo Hinkov has issued an order prohibiting the export of insulins, analogues, other blood sugar-lowering medications, and antibiotics intended for systemic use in childhood until the end of January 2024, Hinkov’s Ministry said on Friday.

On November 2, following increased alerts about shortages of these medicines in pharmacies, Hinkov banned their export until December 31, 2023. After a thorough analysis of the current situation with the availability of the above-mentioned groups of medicinal products and based on information provided by the Bulgarian Drug Agency and marketing authorization holders, it was found necessary to extend the export ban.

The Economy and Industry Ministry has notified the European Commission to apply the urgency procedure. 

Thorough checks of the stock in wholesalers' warehouses will be conducted until the export ban expires, the Ministry’s press release reads.