US Drug Shortages Reach Record Highs

The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists reports a record 323 active drug shortages in early 2024, marking the most severe situation since tracking began.

323 active drug shortages have been reported in the first quarter of 2024, the highest since records began in 2001.
Shortages include critical medications like cancer chemotherapy drugs and ADHD treatments.
60% of the shortages are due to undisclosed reasons by manufacturers, complicating resolution efforts.
Federal agencies and the ASHP are pushing for legislative and policy changes to address the root causes of these shortages.
Concerns grow over the impact on patient care, with some hospitals facing potential penalties for inability to maintain necessary drug stocks.