Record-Breaking 323 Medications in Active Shortage in US, ASHP Reports

1. The US has reached an all-time high of 323 medications in active shortage, according to the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP).
2. This record surpasses the previous high of 320 medications in short supply, set in 2014.
3. ASHP began tracking drug shortages in 2001.
4. The shortages affect all drug classes, with critical shortages in generic sterile injectable medications, cancer chemotherapy drugs, and emergency medications.
5. Adderall, an ADHD medication, is among the drugs in short supply due to manufacturing delays and increased demand.
6. The low prices for generics and competition primarily on price are among the root causes of the shortages.
7. ASHP is advocating for federal and regulatory changes to address the root causes of drug shortages.
8. The Biden administration has unveiled a drug-shortage plan, including incentives for hospitals to maintain adequate stocks of vital medicines.
9. The FDA can employ tools to help manufacturers increase supply during a shortage, but cannot disclose specific actions due to commercial confidentiality.
10. Drug shortages can negatively impact patients financially by forcing them to seek out alternative, more expensive products.