Acetaminophen codeine faces shortage in Iranian pharmacies

Acetaminophen codeine has become scarce in Iranian pharmacies, leading to limited and quota-based distribution. The spokesperson for the Iranian Pharmacists Association, Hadi Ahmadi, attributed the shortage to reduced access to necessary raw materials.

Pharmacists in various areas of Tehran, including Vali-e-Asr and Mirza Shirazi streets, report that the medication is either unavailable or distributed in extremely small quantities. Some pharmacy managers noted that they are forced to purchase other medications in bundles just to receive a few packs of acetaminophen codeine. While the medication previously required a prescription due to its narcotic content, its scarcity has made it difficult for patients to obtain even with a valid prescription, often requiring them to search multiple pharmacies across the city.