Although there were fewer drug shortages at the end of 2017, the number of shortages has been growing, according to a recent FDA report.
Here are five report insights:
1. In 2017, there were 39 drug shortages reported. In the previous two years, there were 26.
2. Although this number is much lower than 2011, when there were 251 shortages, many of the shortages that popped up "have been for critical drug products and they are having a tangible impact on patients," the FDA reported.
3. Notable shortages in 2017 included Mylan's EpiPen, injectable opioids and IV fluids.
4. The FDA attributed the shortages to improper manufacturing practices that caused facilities to shut down and production disruptions from hurricanes.
5. Even though there were more shortages, the FDA said it helped prevent 145.
Read the full report here.