Ukraine war: Sanctions see Russians panic buy antidepressants, sleeping pills
- Russians buy extra supplies of medicines as many fear shortages and price hikes due to Western sanctions over war Ukraine
- Data shows increased demand for antidepressants, sleeping pills, insulin, cancer and heart drugs, hormones and contraceptives
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Ordinary Russians feel economic pain of Western sanctions on Moscow over Ukraine invasion
Russians have rushed to stock up on antidepressants, sleeping pills and contraceptives among other products since the conflict in Ukraine began, data released on Thursday showed, with people buying a month’s worth of medicine in just two weeks.
Although official opinion polls suggest most Russians support President Vladimir Putin’s decision to send tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine, social media, interviews and anecdotal data suggest many Russians have been distressed by the severity of the sanctions imposed on Moscow by the West to try to force it to withdraw its forces.
Many foreign brands have announced they are suspending their operations or quitting Russia, the rouble’s value against the dollar has slumped dramatically, and prices for many everyday products have soared since February 24 when Putin announced what he called “a special operation” in Ukraine.
“I myself take L-thyroxine as I have issues with my thyroid gland so I’m taking it daily and I worry about it,” Valentina, a Moscow resident, said.
“That’s why I bought a supply of it for a couple of months in advance as I’m worried if I will be able to find it in pharmacies later. People are asking for it everywhere.”
Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko this week urged people not to buy extra supplies of medicines.