Abstract

Objectives

Given the structural vulnerabilities and international dependency of the Brazilian pharmaceutical sector, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, this study aims to analyze drug market discontinuation patterns and their associated pricing trends in Brazil between 2018 and 2022.

Methods

Using data from the Brazilian Health Surveillance Agency’s Notification Panel, we performed a descriptive analysis of drug discontinuations and public procurement pricing trends.

Results

The study cataloged 11 657 drug discontinuations; approximately 38% occurred during the COVID-19 health crisis. Most (76.37%) were transient, primarily attributed to commercial factors. Notably, cardiovascular drugs were significantly affected, accounting for approximately 22% of total discontinuations during the pandemic. Analysis of public procurement pricing revealed substantial fluctuations, with some medications seeing cumulative price surges exceeding 100% over the 5-year period. The steepest median price escalation occurred in 2020, coinciding with the pandemic’s onset.

Conclusions

These findings underscore the urgent need to reform Brazil’s price regulation policies and increase investments in the national pharmaceutical industry. Such measures are essential to mitigate external dependency and ensure the consistent availability of essential medicines for the Brazilian population.