FACING A THREAT: Nationwide Shortage of Medications 

Healthcare Ready

Oncology Shortage: 

In the fight against cancer, chemotherapy plays a crucial role in saving lives. But here is the harsh reality: accessing this life-saving treatment has become more challenging than ever. According to a report by the American Cancer Society (ACS), the use of chemotherapy after surgeries for breast and colon cancer has contributed to a significant decrease in fatality risks. This trend gives hope to the millions affected by cancer in the United States, however, there it comes with a major obstacle.  

Drug shortages across the country have reached an all-time high. A few months ago, hospitals were forced to ration albuterol sulfate, a vital medication for treating respiratory conditions, due to a critical shortage caused by supply chain disruptions. The same alarming scenario is now unfolding with chemotherapy medications.  

Carboplatin and cisplatin, two essential chemotherapy drugs, are in short supply. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) revealed that 93% of centers are currently experiencing shortages of carboplatin, while 70% are facing shortages of cisplatin. This crisis is forcing doctors to make complex decisions, delay treatments, or seek alternative care plans. Our hearts go out to those affected by this uncertainty.  

More concerning is that cisplatin and carboplatin are often used interchangeably. This flexibility has been a strength in the past, allowing doctors to switch between the two when supplies ran low. However, with both drugs facing scarcity, finding alternatives has become increasingly difficult. There are multiple factors contributing to these drug shortages, including manufacturing disruptions and policy implementation that spans national borders. The shutdown of Accord Healthcare Inc.'s manufacturing facility in India, a major supplier of cisplatin and carboplatin, has left a significant void. Other manufacturers have struggled to fill the gaps, leading to delays. But there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon!  

The FDA has been collaborating with Qilu Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. and Apotex Corp. to increase the availability of cisplatin in the U.S. market. Temporary importation of the drug aims to alleviate the shortage and provide relief to patients in need. While progress is being made, any further delays in manufacturing and delivery could prolong the timeline for accessing these vital drugs. This would disrupt patient care and threaten the availability of other cancer medications used as substitutes. We must remain vigilant and advocate for solutions to ensure that every patient receives the treatment they deserve.  

Penicillin Shortage: 

 According to Pfizer's recent letter to clinicians, there is a limited supply and impending stock out situation for Bicillin L-A and Bicillin C-R Prefilled Syringes. The rise in syphilis infection rates and increased demand are the main reasons behind this shortage.  

The impact of this shortage is far-reaching, especially for children who may run out of supply by the end of June 2023. It is crucial to understand that Bicillin is the recommended treatment for preliminary stages of syphilis, including primary, secondary, and early latent syphilis. Bicillin L-A is not only the most effective antibiotic but also the only product available to treat pregnant patients with syphilis. This shortage is forcing doctors to carefully ration Bicillin L-A for critical cases.  

Unfortunately, the situation does not seem to be improving anytime soon. Pfizer estimates that all Bicillin C-R will be depleted by the end of Q3 2023, and Bicillin L-A pediatric prefilled syringes may run out by the end of Q2 2023. The estimated resupply dates are projected to be between Q2 and Q3 2024.