Ecuador restricts sale of certain anti-inflammatories due to dengue

Ecuador has implemented a nationwide restriction on the over-the-counter sale of certain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac. Effective September 11, 2026, these medications can only be dispensed with a medical prescription.

The measure follows a surge in dengue fever cases, which has reached 32,576 recorded infections and 35 confirmed deaths. Health authorities, including the National Agency for Regulation, Control and Surveillance (Arcsa), warn that these specific anti-inflammatories can interfere with blood coagulation mechanisms and mask fever or other clinical warning signs, potentially leading to fatal hemorrhages and delayed medical intervention.

Epidemiological data shows a national incidence rate of approximately 172 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. While 84.87% of patients have experienced no warning signs, 14.44% have shown warning signs, and 0.69% have progressed to severe clinical states. To manage the crisis, the Ministry of Public Health has allocated 1.3 million dollars for operational management across the country's 24 provinces.