Overview

• 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.