Dr. Brita's Blog

Mar. 21, 2019 - Recently, I came across a series of detailed graphs showing drug shortage statistics that provides a snapshot of the ongoing epidemic of drug shortages from 2001 to 2018. These statistics were compiled by the University of Utah Drug Information Service and published by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). The seven graphs revealed the rate of new shortages is increasing. Long-term active and ongoing shortages are not being resolved. There are also inadequate supplies of basic drugs, which has a serious negative impact on patient care and pharmacy operations.

The Drug Shortage Epidemic: How Bad Is It, Really?

Jan. 25, 2018 - The drug shortage crisis continues with no end in sight.  The number and duration of prescription drug shortages is growing, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The Annals of Internal Medicine also reported that prescription drug shortages cause an estimated $230 million in additional costs annually due to rising prices of drugs under shortage and the higher costs of substitutes. However, there are real consequences beyond the hard-dollar costs.