CLIO, Mich. (WJRT) – The Food and Drug Administration is warning that amoxicillin powder may be harder to find this cold and flu season.
The drug, used to fight bacterial infections in children such as strep throat, has been in short supply since October 2022.
It’s not alone. According to the FDA, there are shortages of more than 120 drugs across the United States. The list ranges from painkillers to diabetes medications to stimulants.
“I’ve been in pharmacy for over 20 years, and this year is the worst year ever,” said Ron Foskett, a pharmacist. “From antibiotics to many GLP1 drugs. Weight loss drugs are causing shortages in many diabetes drugs and people who really need them. Painkillers, Adderall are also in short supply, so there’s all sorts of them. Right now. Out of stock.”
It’s not just prescription drugs. The shortage also extends to vaccines.
“There is a shortage of COVID-19 vaccines,” Foskett explained. “While we are currently able to secure supplies, we have confirmed that some vaccines will be in short supply while the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are being delivered.”
Foskett operates an independent pharmacy. That gives him more flexibility in purchasing a variety of suppliers than big chains like Walmart and his CVS.
But when supply decreases, it becomes difficult for everyone.
“The pressure is [and] We’re shopping and the wholesalers are raising prices because they know there’s demand, which puts stress on the consumer and that’s driving prices up,” Foskett said. .
Foskett said despite the pressure, they are doing everything they can to get people what they need.
“Getting customers in the door is paramount, and taking care of the patients who actually need the medication is our top priority,” Foskett said.
Foskett added that for certain medicines, such as Ozempic, the company is first working on filling the medicine according to its intended use. That means prioritizing people with diabetes before filling prescriptions for people who are using drugs to lose weight.
