# Argentina Parkinson's medication shortage

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/argentina-parkinsons-medication-shortage
> Updated: 2026-10-19T23:28:47.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 3.

The shortage of levodopa/carbidopa medication in Argentina has escalated in scope, now affecting approximately 130,000 Parkinson’s patients. The crisis stems from Pfizer’s decision to temporarily discontinue production of Lebocar—a drug it uses to supply roughly 70% of the national market—to redirect resources toward other areas, such as oncology.

Medical professionals and officials have emphasized the clinical urgency of the shortage. Because the medication has a short half-life, patients require doses every four hours to prevent the rapid onset of motor symptoms, including tremors, rigidity, and loss of balance. While a national alternative exists, provincial deputy Miguel Rabbia noted it covers only about 35 percent of demand and may not be suitable for all patients.

To mitigate the deficit, local laboratory Bagó is working to increase production of its bioequivalent version, aiming to manufacture its entire annual supply volume within two to three months to support the 20% of the market it serves.

Following protests and government intervention, Pfizer has communicated that the supply of Lebocar is expected to normalize between November and December. This timeline provides significant relief, as it is much earlier than the initial estimate of March 2027.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-19: Parkinson's medication shortage affects patients in Argentina

A shortage of the essential Parkinson's medication LevoCal, caused by Pfizer discontinuing production, has impacted thousands in Argentina. Supply is expected to stabilize in November.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/parkinsons-medication-shortage-affects-patients-in-argentina

### 2026-10-14: Pfizer to restore Lebocar Parkinson's medication supply by year-end

Pfizer will restore the supply of Lebocar, a key Parkinson's medication in Argentina, between November and December, much earlier than the previously projected March 2027 date.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pfizer-to-restore-lebocar-parkinsons-medication-supply-by-year-end

### 2026-10-10: Argentina Parkinson's patients face medication shortage

Parkinson's patients in Argentina face a critical shortage of levodopa after Pfizer suspended local production. Local lab Bagó is increasing output to help cover the deficit.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/argentina-parkinsons-patients-face-medication-shortage

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Cite as: Argentina Parkinson's medication shortage. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/argentina-parkinsons-medication-shortage