Résumé
Drug shortages have increased since the 2000s nationally in France but also internationally. Drug shortages are a major public health issue. It is therefore necessary that systems for management but also for preventing shortages are implemented.The causes of drug shortages are varied and, for many of them, to be considered in a global context. The international dimension of drug shortages is therefore an element to be considered, as France is not alone in having to deal with this major public health problem.Drug shortage management strategies are managed at national level, however coordination at European level is essential. The European Medicines Agency (EMA), with the collaboration of the national competent authorities, is taking an increasingly important role in this management of medicine shortages in Europe. During the COVID-19 health crisis, its coordination role takes on its full importance.The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted drug supply chains but also caused an increase in demand for drugs critical to the management of the pathology, creating disruptions and tensions in the supply of drugs in all markets. In this context, exceptional actions have been taken across the EU to prevent ruptures and reduce their impact on public health.