Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon M. Lopez has given his assurance that supply of branded paracetamol in the market will return to normal in three days.
Lopez said that three days would be reasonable lead time for manufacturers of these medicines, particularly the branded paracetamol, to replenish supplies in drugstrores
According to Lopez, Watson, one of the country’s major drugstore chains, informed him they will distribute to their branches today, Wednesday, Jan. 5.
Mercury, the country’s biggest drugstore chain, is expediting its delivery starting Thursday, Jan. 6, instead of the original schedule of Saturday, Jan. 11.
Unilab, the maker of preferred branded paracetamol brands, also committed to expedite deliveries this week, Lopez added. Also, Unilab produces their brands locally so the turnaround is faster.
On putting a cap on the number of paracetamol an individual can buy to prevent hoarding and panic buying, Lopez said that manufacturers told him there is no need to put a ceiling because they can supply. But drugstores would be able also to put their quantity limits once they detect unnecessary bulk purchases.
Manufacturers also admitted to Lopez of unusual surge in demand of paracetamol medicines after the new year.
Lopez said that manufacturers, which maintained normal inventory at drugstores,did not expect the unusual surge in demand since Jan. 1. They were caught off guard with the exorbitant increase in demand, resulting in shortage at the drugstore level.
“I assure that there is plenty of stock, it is just a matter of replenishment,” he reiterated urging consumers not to engage in panic buying and to avoid bulk purchase, but buy only for what is necessary.