Diabetics in the Canary Islands report new insulin shortages
Diabetics in the Canary Islands are once again facing problems accessing insulin, with some reporting that certain types used in insulin pumps are currently out of stock in local pharmacies. This has already happened with Ozempic, due to its use as a weight-loss formula. Now, this shortage appears to be occurring again with some injectable insulins.
In July 2025, the Diabetes Association of Catalonia warned of supply problems affecting NovoRapid Pumpcart and Fiasp Pumpcart, both rapid-acting insulin asparts commonly used in insulin pump devices.
At the time, manufacturers cited production capacity issues, which caused intermittent shortages throughout the year, a situation that now appears to be recurring.
Rapid-acting insulins like Fiasp are essential for patients using pumps, as they help control blood sugar spikes after meals, unlike long-acting insulins that maintain baseline glucose levels.
The Official College of Pharmacists of Santa Cruz de Tenerife confirmed that a short-term supply issue had been reported during the week of 20th–26th October, affecting a brand of refillable insulin pens in 3 ml cartridges. “At present, there are no general dispensing problems,” the organisation stated.
However, it acknowledged that isolated shortages may still occur and reminded pharmacies that they can use the FarmaHelp system to locate medicines in stock elsewhere. Through this network, if a pharmacy runs out of a product, others can be notified to ensure patients receive their medication as quickly as possible.
Pharmacists also stress that insulin is considered a priority medicine and must be dispensed without delay whenever available.
For now, diabetic patients are being advised to:
- Check with multiple pharmacies in their area if their regular one is out of stock.
- Ask pharmacists to use FarmaHelp to locate available units.
- Avoid hoarding insulin, as it can worsen temporary shortages.
- Contact their healthcare provider for possible alternative insulins if the shortage persists.
The situation is being monitored by both pharmacists and health authorities to prevent further disruption to supplies.
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