Russia sees record antidepressant sales amidst ongoing conflict
In 2024, the sale of antidepressant drugs in Russia rose by 20%, reaching 16.1 million packages by November, according to the economic newspaper "Kommersant," which cited data from market analysts.
The sale of antidepressant drugs in Russia in 2024 reached a record level, increasing by 20% compared to the previous year. By November, 16.1 million packages had been sold, reports "Kommersant," referring to market analysts' data.
War and antidepressants
Demand for antidepressants among Russians surged following the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. In the first month after the outbreak of the war, the sale of antidepressants tripled. In 2024, the demand grew by 22% compared to 2023, according to the Advanced Technology Development Centre as cited by the newspaper.
Such a dramatic increase in demand, coupled with limited drug supplies to Russia, is causing difficulties in purchasing certain medications.
– Patients suffering from depression are increasingly relying on medication and visiting doctors more frequently, instead of using traditional methods of coping with the illness – said Nikolai Bespalov, director of a Russian pharmaceutical company, quoted by "Moscow Times."
