Here are eight new drug shortages to know, according to databases compiled by the FDA and the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists:
- Methohexital injection: Fresenius Kabi is reporting supply issues with the anesthetic. The company expects more availability by mid-October.
- Bacitracin ophthalmic ointment: Akorn Pharmaceuticals, the drug's sole supplier, has stopped production due to a manufacturing halt.
- Estradiol and norethindrone acetate transdermal system: Novartis is reporting shortages for this hormone replacement therapy. There is no estimated release date for new stock.
- Silver nitrate solution: The sole supplier, Pharmacy Solutions, has experienced manufacturing delays. New supplies are expected to be available in early November.
- Bevacizumab-bvzr injection: Amgen has reported shortages of the oncology drug due to increased demand. The company projects more availability in late October.
- Diphenoxylate hydrochloride and atropine hydrochloride oral solution: Morton Grove Pharmaceuticals is the sole supplier and is experiencing a supply disruption due to packaging issues, with no release date.
- Indocyanine Green injection: The medical dye, which is used to measure cardiac input, liver function and blood flow, is in shortage. Renew Pharmaceuticals has a limited supply of one presentation until December.
- Cyclosporine solution: Novartis pharmaceuticals has discontinued the brand-name version of the solution which is used to prevent organ transplant rejection.