NewsRussia sees record surge in antidepressant demand amid war

Russia sees record surge in antidepressant demand amid war

The economic online portal Kommersant reports that in 2024, sales of antidepressants in Russia increased by 20%, reaching 16.1 million packages by November, citing data from market analysts.

People on the streets of Moscow
People on the streets of Moscow
Images source: © PAP | PAP/EPA/SERGEI ILNITSKY
Paulina Ciesielska

Antidepressant sales in Russia in 2024 reached a record high, growing by 20% compared to the previous year. By November, 16.1 million packages were sold, states "Kommersant," citing data from market analysts.according to Kommersant,

War and antidepressants

The demand for antidepressants among Russians surged after the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. In the first month alone after the outbreak of the war, antidepressant sales tripled. In 2024, the demand increased by 22% compared to 2023, according to the Advanced Technology Development Center, quoted by the newspaper.

Such a sharp increase in demand and limited medical supply deliveries to Russia make purchasing certain medications difficult.

Nikolai Bespalov, director of a Russian pharmaceutical company, noted that individuals experiencing depression are turning away from traditional coping methods and are consulting doctors more often. This statement was reported by the Moscow Times.

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