Aspirin Shortages & Generative AI: This Week in Healthcare
The pharmaceutical sector is shifting towards an automated, data-driven approach to research and development through integrating generative AI with conventional drug discovery methods.
Biotechnology firm Insilico Medicine, which specialises in generative AI and automation technologies, has entered into a partnership with pharmaceutical manufacturer Eli Lilly. The collaboration aims to expedite the identification and development of new therapeutic candidates spanning several treatment areas.
Ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz have intensified concerns about the UK's ability to secure essential medical supplies.
These concerns have been building throughout the year, with aspirin sourcing proving particularly problematic in the UK.
The BBC reported in January 2025 that the drug's cost had surged by 1,000% amid a nationwide shortage, according to frontline pharmacists.
The supply chain crisis has prompted some wholesalers to increase prices to extraordinary levels, with one pharmacist reportedly paying ÂŁ7.82 (US$9.85) for a single box of aspirin, a medication that usually costs just 38p (US$0.48).
Amazon has marked World Water Day by launching a dedicated water spotlight on its website, detailing the company's approach to water management and highlighting its various replenishment initiatives across the globe.
The digital platform demonstrates the organisation's commitment to responsible water stewardship across all its operational territories.
According to Amazon, collective action is essential for smarter water management practices that safeguard access to clean water resources.
As climate change accelerates, it is increasingly recognised as a public health crisis, causing heat-related illnesses and extreme weather fatalities. Women remain disproportionately at risk.
Sustainability leaders around the world are working on ways to take action and prevent global warming.
Healthcare Digital speaks with Frédéric Godemel, EVP of Energy Management at Schneider Electric, about how the energy transition can protect global health and why this shift is vital for women.
Pharmaceuticals and medical products need to be transported in specific temperature-controlled packages and vehicles.
Cold chain logistics refers to the careful movement of pharmaceuticals and other perishable products in specialised environments.
A lot of development and goes into creating effective cold chains, including technology to monitor temperatures and vehicles to manage products.
This sector is highly regulated and the items must be under strict care and monitoring throughout their journey.
Healthcare Digital has ranked the top 10 companies using cold chain logistics in the healthcare sector by their market capitalisation.
Company portals
Executives
Alex Zhavoronkov
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Business Officer
Andrew Adams
Group Vice President - Molecule Discovery
David Weeks
Director, Supply Chain Industry Practice Lead | Moodyâs
Frederic Godemel
Executive Vice President - Energy Management Business, Executive Committee Member
Kara H. Hurst
Vice President, CSO, Worldwide Sustainability
Mark Samuels
Chief Executive Officer
Meighan McLafferty
Director, Industry Relations | Sustainability and The Climate Pledge
