WASHINGTON (TND) — in senate hearing Earlier this month, lawmakers addressed the pressing problem of prescription drug shortages in the United States.
According to the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 309 drug shortages At the end of the second quarter of 2023, the shortage will be the largest in nearly a decade.
The breakdown of medicines facing shortages highlighted shortages of medicines used for cancer, ADHD and diabetes, as well as essential antibiotics such as amoxicillin.
The impact affects a wide range of individuals, and research data conducted by ASHP reveals: 99% or more A higher percentage of respondents were dealing with drug shortages this summer. Another investigation Researchers from the American Cancer Action Network highlighted that 1 in 10 cancer patients receiving active treatment is affected by these shortages.
There is some causes Shortages can be caused by increased demand for a particular drug, manufacturing delays, or quality issues. In particular, demand is increasing for weight loss drugs It was originally intended to treat diabetes. In addition, an important pharmaceutical factory in India that produces cancer drugs shut down temporarily Due to quality issues.
Some critics condemn Allocation reduction Established by the Drug Enforcement Agencywhich could lead to shortages of medications like Adderall.
There are several proposals to address drug shortages in the United States, one of which is to increase domestic drug manufacturing to reduce dependence on other countries.
president joe biden announced plan In November, he emphasized his goal of increasing federal investment in domestic drug manufacturing. The plan also included creating a ministerial-level council to address the shortage and allocating $35 million to support supplies of drugs used in surgeries, such as propofol and fentanyl.
There are some other ideas for dealing with the shortage. recommendation We have received a request from the American Medical Association to consider non-profit or government-sponsored drug manufacturing. The controversial idea was previously proposed by Democratic Sen. Elizabeth Warren. resubmitted the bill Proposes creation of a Federal Drug Manufacturing Agency.
Stockpiling is another proposal being put forward with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. defend For reimbursement to hospitals that manage drug inventories.
