Antiviral, antibiotic shortages cause strain on healthcare providers

Editor's Note

A shortage of medications used in treatment of pediatric illnesses are causing additional challenges for healthcare providers amid spikes in respiratory viruses, according to a November 22 CNN story, reports Becker’s Hospital Review November 23.

It was reported by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) that as of November 9, 13 Tamiflu generics were short in supply among six providers. Additionally, there has been shortages of amoxicillin and Augmentin, as well as inhalers for the drug albuterol.

Manufacturing issues are not the root of the cause, says ASHP senior director of pharmacy practice and quality. "It's just increased demand ahead of schedule and [is] higher than usual," he told CNN.

Many providers are increasing production to satisfy the high demand. Pharmaceutical company Teva expects amoxicillin to be back in stock between December and February. Roche has a “sufficient supply” of Tamiflu and told Becker’s that pharmacies should stock up for what has been predicted to be a challenging flu season.