Drug Shortage Tracker

Reason

Increased demand combined with DEA manufacturing quotas and active pharmaceutical ingredient supply constraints. Multiple manufacturers affected.

Alternatives

• Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) — different release mechanism, may be available
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) — different stimulant class
• Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) — may be easier to source

Estimated Resolution

Ongoing — some manufacturers have increased production

Reason

Unprecedented demand driven by weight-loss prescribing alongside diabetes management. Novo Nordisk manufacturing capacity has not kept pace with demand.

Alternatives

• Trulicity (dulaglutide) — same GLP-1 class, different manufacturer
• Mounjaro (tirzepatide) — GLP-1/GIP dual agonist (also experiencing shortages)
• Victoza (liraglutide) — older GLP-1, more available

Estimated Resolution

Novo Nordisk investing $6B+ in manufacturing expansion — expected improvement by mid-2025

Reason

Surge in respiratory infections led to increased demand for pediatric liquid formulations. Raw material supply issues also contributed.

Alternatives

• Amoxicillin capsules/tablets (for patients who can swallow pills)
• Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) — available in some areas
• Cephalexin — alternative antibiotic if clinically appropriate

Estimated Resolution

Mostly resolved — liquid formulations returning to pharmacies

Reason

Manufacturing disruptions and supply chain issues affecting several albuterol inhaler manufacturers simultaneously.

Alternatives

• Levalbuterol (Xopenex) — available as nebulizer solution
• Albuterol nebulizer solution — may be more available than inhalers
• Ventolin (brand albuterol) — check availability at different pharmacies

Estimated Resolution

Improving — most pharmacies report partial restocking

Reason

Supply disruptions linked to raw material shortages and manufacturing delays. DEA quota limitations also a factor.

Alternatives

• Methylphenidate IR (immediate-release) — more widely available
• Ritalin LA — alternative extended-release formulation
• Focalin XR (dexmethylphenidate) — may be easier to find

Estimated Resolution

Some manufacturers have resumed full production

Reason

Key manufacturing facility shutdown (Intas Pharmaceuticals in India was cited by the FDA for quality issues). Carboplatin is a critical chemotherapy drug with no direct equivalent.

Alternatives

• Cisplatin — related platinum compound (different side-effect profile)
• Hospital-based rationing protocols in place at some cancer centers
• Check with oncologist for alternative treatment regimens

Estimated Resolution

Other manufacturers ramping up — partial improvement expected

Reason

Manufacturing and supply chain disruptions. Hospital demand for IV pain management alternatives to opioids strained supply.

Alternatives

• Oral acetaminophen when tolerated
• IV ketorolac (Toradol) for postoperative pain
• Multimodal pain management protocols

Estimated Resolution

Resolved — supply has returned to normal