Iranians Struggle with Soaring Medicine Prices Amid U.S. Sanctions and Blockade

Medication prices in Iran have surged as U.S. sanctions and a blockade hit the pharmaceutical industry, leaving patients desperate for affordable treatments.

Editorial Desk

September 30, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Tehran, Iran — Medication prices are surging in Iran, with some treatments tripling in cost, as the country’s pharmaceutical industry faces severe strain from U.S. sanctions and a naval blockade.

The economic pressure has left many families struggling to afford essential medicines, while shortages and smuggling have further complicated access to critical drugs. The situation has been exacerbated by the ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel, which has disrupted supply chains and increased costs.

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Pharmacies across Iran report that prices for common medications have skyrocketed, with some items increasing sixfold. Patients like Gholamreza Rahmani, a welder in Tehran, have spent days searching for prescriptions for his daughter, only to find that certain medicines are unavailable or unaffordable.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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