Pakistan’s health authorities on Tuesday dismissed reports of a nationwide insulin shortage, clarifying that only one brand, Apidra, is currently unavailable because of international supply constraints.
The statement followed social media reports raising concerns about access to insulin for patients living with diabetes.
The Ministry of National Health Services and the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) said alternative insulin products remain available throughout the country.
“Insulin glulisine (Apidra, Sanofi) is currently unavailable due to international supply constraints,” ministry spokesperson Sajid Shah confirmed.
He added that two alternative rapid-acting insulin analogues, NovoRapid (insulin aspart) and Humalog (insulin lispro), are readily available nationwide.
“All other primary insulin classes remain fully accessible across Pakistan,” Shah said.
The spokesperson explained that medically approved insulin products fall into two broad categories: insulin analogues, which include rapid-acting, long-acting and premixed formulations, and human insulin, which includes short-acting and intermediate-acting preparations.
However, authorities cautioned patients against independently changing their prescribed insulin.
Those currently using Apidra should consult their healthcare provider before switching to another formulation, as adjustments to dosage and blood glucose monitoring may be necessary.
“Any transition to an alternative insulin formulation requires precise dose titration and tailored monitoring to maintain optimal glycaemic control,” Shah emphasised.
The clarification comes amid longstanding concerns about the availability of essential medicines in Pakistan.
In August 2025, the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) warned of a severe shortage of at least 80 essential medicines, including 25 reportedly without available substitutes. The affected medicines included treatments for diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular conditions and neurological and psychiatric disorders.
In March 2026, the association again raised concerns, this time highlighting shortages of essential paediatric tuberculosis and cancer medicines and calling for urgent government intervention.
While authorities maintain that insulin supplies remain broadly stable, the confirmed unavailability of Apidra means patients using that particular brand may need medically supervised adjustments to their treatment.