Thousands of doses of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines were reported to have expired in Kudus regency, Central Java, raising concerns about the wastage of crucial medical resources during the ongoing global vaccination efforts. The pharmaceutical company behind the vaccine stated that the withdrawal of the vaccine's marketing authorizations within Europe was a response to the surplus of various COVID-19 vaccine options now available, leading to a decreased demand for the specific AstraZeneca vaccine that was no longer being manufactured or supplied.

In addition to the issue of expiration, AstraZeneca has faced challenges due to reported side effects related to the vaccine, such as blood clotting and low blood platelet counts. This has led to a decrease in confidence in the vaccine and contributed to the decision to withdraw its marketing authorizations within Europe. The company's shift towards respiratory syncytial virus vaccines and obesity drugs, following a decline in COVID-19 medicine sales, also reflects a broader strategic move in response to changing market dynamics and medical needs.

The withdrawal process for AstraZeneca's Vaxzevria vaccine was initiated on March 5 and officially implemented on May 7, as reported by media outlets. This development underscores the complex landscape of vaccine distribution, safety considerations, and market dynamics that influence decisions made by pharmaceutical companies and health authorities. Despite the challenges and setbacks faced by AstraZeneca in this particular vaccine instance, the company continues to engage in pharmaceutical innovation and diversification in response to evolving healthcare needs and market demands.