Pharmacy strike on November 6th: what changes for citizens?
Thursday November 6, 2025 It will be a day of inconvenience for many citizens: the 60 private pharmacy employees from all over Italy will cross their arms for 24 hoursThe strike was called by the unions Filcams Cgil, Fisascat Cisl e Uiltucs after the breakdown of the negotiating table with Fedefarma on the renewal of the national contract, expired on August 31, 2024The protest aims to secure wage increases and working conditions in line with the cost of living, but will inevitably have repercussions on local pharmaceutical services.
The reasons for the strike
The unions are asking for a concrete salary adjustment and a review of contractual protections, judging the economic proposal to be "inadequate" 180 euros gross in three years put forward by Federfarma. Workers' organizations recall that pharmacists represent an essential health and social facility, a daily point of reference for millions of citizens. Federfarma, for its part, reiterated the need to guarantee economic conditions sustainable for all pharmacies, including small rural areas, stressing that the network must remain efficient and widespread.
What changes for citizens on November 6th
The national strike could have visible effects on access to pharmaceutical services in several Italian cities. Here are the main expected impacts:
- Possible closures or reduced hoursMany private pharmacies will remain closed for the entire shift, while others will only provide a minimum service.
- Active pharmacies on duty: the following will be ensured in any case pharmacies on duty for emergencies, to ensure continuity in the supply of lifesaving drugs and essential therapies.
- Discomfort from chronic medications or prescriptions: those who need to collect periodic therapies or buy over-the-counter products may encounter delays, queues or the need to move in another area.
- No impact on hospitals or online pharmacies: the strike concerns only the private pharmacies with agreements, while the hospital and online pharmacies will continue to operate regularly.
A health facility that demands recognition
Pharmacies are often the first point of contact between citizens and the healthcare system. For this reason, workers are asking for a contract that recognizes their role in prevention and local assistanceNovember 6th will therefore be a strong signal, not only to demand economic adjustment, but to reaffirm the importance of a profession that combines competence, responsibility, and public service.