COVENTRY — Pharmacists in Coventry have told a 72-year-old resident multiple times they have no aspirin in stock, as shortages of the medication continue to affect UK pharmacies. Ministers say measures are in place to mitigate disruption from the shortage, which has persisted since late last year.

David Slater, who lives in Earlsdon in Coventry, relies on aspirin daily to prevent blood clots after having three stents fitted. He believes the shortage could put his life at risk.

"To have a situation such as a heart attack does worry me," Slater said. "I can imagine it worries everybody that's on the same medication."

The aspirin shortage stems from issues in the global supply chain, with some stocks reserved for those with acute conditions or emergency prescriptions. In January, 86 percent of pharmacies surveyed by the National Pharmacy Association were unable to supply aspirin to patients.

Pharmacists are rationing aspirin supplies, and high-risk patients will be prioritized. Aspirin is used by millions of people across the UK to help prevent strokes and heart attacks.

Slater's medication deliveries have been infrequent, and on one occasion he received just a handful of tablets because his local pharmacy ran out. He asked his landlord and daughter to search for aspirin supplies but they were unable to find any.

Dr. Alia Fahmy, medical director of Concierge Medical based in Warwickshire and a former NHS GP in Leamington Spa, expressed concern about the shortage. "I don't understand why we are in a situation where we're beholden to supply and demand when it comes to something as basic as healthcare and medicine," Fahmy said.

"The vast majority of the UK's licensed medicines are in good supply and aspirin stock remains available to pharmacies from wholesalers. To make sure this remains the case, we work with suppliers to resolve any issues and we are investing more in the domestic medicine manufacturing industry," a Department for Health and Social Care spokesperson said.