Europe faces plasma-derived drug shortages as domestic collection lags behind demand
EU countries are struggling to meet growing demand for plasma-derived medicines, with Hungary relying on imports despite local processing capacity.
Beyond transfusion needs, plasma supplies the basis for immunoglobulins and clotting factor drugs, requiring industrial fractionation before reaching patients. Hungary's Kedrion facility in Gödöllő can separate plasma components for international manufacturing, but national regulations require that processed products be procured through public tender to reach local hospitals. The Hungarian drug authority notes a shortage warning for the 200 ml Humaglobin Liquid since May 2025, though other pack sizes remain available.
Europe-wide, the European Medicines Agency has warned of multiple immunoglobulin shortages extending into 2027, driven by unexpected demand spikes. Countries such as Italy and Spain report that even record-high plasma collections cover only a portion of their immunoglobulin needs, underscoring the gap between collection and self-sufficiency. Dependence on U.S. plasma imports further exposes Europe to supply disruptions, prompting new EU rules on donor compensation and registry tracking to balance safety with increased donations.
Why it matters
Shortages of plasma-derived medicines could limit treatment options for patients across Europe.
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