Growing Concerns Over Insulin Accessibility for Diabetics in Tenerife

Patients with diabetes in Tenerife are currently grappling with significant obstacles in securing insulin, an essential medication crucial for effective management of their health condition. The situation has raised alarms among both patients and healthcare professionals, highlighting a pressing issue that requires immediate attention.

Challenges in Insulin Supply

In recent weeks, individuals who rely on insulin have reported alarming difficulties in accessing their prescribed medications. This troubling trend echoes previous shortages experienced with Ozempic, a medication that gained notoriety for its off-label use in weight loss, leading to a scarcity that affected many patients. At present, specific types of insulin, particularly those utilized in insulin pumps, are also facing shortages, exacerbating the challenges for diabetics who depend on these devices for their daily management.

Marta, a patient who relies on Fiasp insulin for her insulin pump, encountered this distressing issue last Wednesday at her regular pharmacy in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. She was informed that the insulin was out of stock and that there were delays in receiving new shipments from the cooperatives. This incident has left her feeling anxious about her health management, as timely access to insulin is critical for maintaining stable blood sugar levels.

Context of the Current Shortages

The ongoing insulin shortages have not emerged overnight. In July 2025, the Diabetes Association of Catalonia issued a stark warning regarding the scarcity of NovoRapid Pumpcart and Fiasp Pumpcart insulins. These shortages have been attributed to production capacity challenges faced by manufacturers, which have led to persistent supply issues throughout the year. The situation has raised questions about the reliability of insulin supplies and the implications for patient health.

Marta expressed her frustration with the cyclical nature of these shortages, stating, “It seems we are back to square one.” When she sought to obtain her insulin, she was advised to check other pharmacies for availability, a suggestion that reflects the growing uncertainty surrounding insulin access. Insulin is categorized into two primary types: slow-acting, which helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and fast-acting, which is primarily used to manage post-meal spikes. The fast-acting variety is the most commonly used in insulin pumps, making its availability particularly critical for those who rely on this technology.

Pharmacy Perspectives and Official Statements

Insights from pharmacy staff reveal that the supply of Fiasp has been especially problematic, with challenges in sourcing it from the cooperative. Marta noted that she had faced similar issues just a few months ago, indicating a troubling pattern of availability that raises concerns about the future. The recurring nature of these shortages is not only frustrating for patients but also poses a risk to their health and well-being.

The Official College of Pharmacists of Santa Cruz de Tenerife provided an update on the situation, stating that the only recent supply issue was noted during the week of October 20 to 26, specifically affecting a brand of insulin available in a refillable pen format. They confirmed, “Currently, we do not have any dispensing problems.” However, they acknowledged that if a pharmacy is unable to provide a medication, they will request it from the cooperative, highlighting the collaborative efforts to address these shortages.

In instances where the cooperative cannot fulfill the request, pharmacies utilize a system known as FarmaHelp. This innovative tool allows pharmacists to document the shortage and request that anyone with the medication notify the pharmacy, facilitating access for patients in need. The pharmacists emphasized the importance of dispensing medications, including insulin, as quickly as possible to ensure patient health and safety. The proactive measures taken by pharmacies reflect a commitment to patient care amidst ongoing challenges.

Key points

• Diabetes patients in Tenerife are experiencing significant insulin shortages.
• Marta, a patient, reported difficulties obtaining Fiasp insulin from her pharmacy.
• Shortages have been linked to production capacity issues faced by manufacturers.
• The Diabetes Association of Catalonia warned of insulin shortages in July 2025.
• Pharmacies are using a system called FarmaHelp to manage medication shortages effectively.
• The Official College of Pharmacists confirmed no current widespread dispensing problems, but challenges remain.