Fewer medicines temporarily unavailable in 2024
The number of temporarily unavailable medicines decreased in 2024: that is one of the main conclusions from the annual report of the Federal Agency for Medicines and Health Products. The year 2024 was also marked by the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the European Union. A unique opportunity for the FAMHP to strengthen its role at European level. At the same time, our other activities also continued. The FAMHP’s annual report provides an overview of that progress.
As every year, the Federal Agency for Medicines and Health Products (FAMHP) publishes its annual report. This document provides an overview of our day-to-day activities and our ongoing commitment to public health. It details how, through our activities, we strive to fulfil our mission of guaranteeing the safety, quality, efficacy and availability of medicines and health products on the Belgian market. From our involvement at European level to our national actions, discover a sample of the FAMHP's work in 2024.
Some key figures for 2024
- 3 321 notifications on the temporary unavailability of medicinal products for human use. A 14 % decrease compared to 2023.
- 6 791 notifications of adverse reactions received concerning medicinal products for human use, a decrease of 15 % compared to 2023.
- 3 766 intercepted postal packages containing non-compliant products from outside the European Economic Area (EEA).
- 2 787 inspections carried out and 1 116 investigations conducted.
- 1 577 new authorisations for medicinal products in Belgium in the Medicinal Product Management database, which is a 36 % increase compared to 2023.
- 533 clinical trial applications processed.
- 2 809 725 reports on the implantation and explantation of medical devices received in the Central Traceability Register (CTR).
- 109 parliamentary questions processed.
- 287 answered press questions.
Addressing the unavailability of medicinal products
After several years of increase, 2024 marks a positive break: the number of notifications on the temporary unavailability of medicinal products has fallen from 3 841 (in 2023) to 3 321. This can be explained by the numerous measures implemented by the FAMHP, in collaboration with stakeholders in the sector and European partners. While some shortages persist most are now rapidly solved, and alternatives are often available or recommendations are made to provide patients with the best care possible.
Belgian presidency of the Council of the European Union
From 1 January 2024 to 30 June 2024, Belgium held the presidency of the Council of the European Union. During this period, the FAMHP organised over twenty events and meetings to promote cooperation and dialogue between member states and with European institutions. The agency has also contributed its expertise to many major European initiatives.
Focus on the agency's applications
Because public health concerns everyone, the FAMHP develops applications that are accessible to both patients and healthcare professionals. These digital tools are designed to enhance transparency, improve traceability and facilitate access to information. Artificial intelligence is also being considered as part of pharmacovigilance work.
For more information
Discover all the achievements and projects in 2024 in the FAMHP's digital annual report. The format has been adapted to make it more accessible. As your opinion is important for us, please feel free to contact us by e-mail for any feedback at comm@fagg-afmps.be.
If you would like to be informed of FAMHP press releases and related communication material, please send an email to comm@fagg-afmps.be and follow the FAMHP on social media.
More information
Communication Division – + 32 2 528 40 12 – comm@fagg-afmps.be