Amoxicillin, an antibiotic commonly used to treat bacterial infections in children, is in short supply.
According to the American Society of Health System Pharmacists’ database of drug shortages, at least three-fifths of the major manufacturers of amoxicillin reported shortages.
Amoxicillin is not the first drug whose production has been delayed due to supply chain problems. More recently, shortages of Adderall, used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, have also been reported.
“The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated drug shortages and supply chain disruptions,” said Janice Johnston, MD, co-founder and chief medical officer of Redirect Health.
Doctors often prescribe amoxicillin to treat children with ear infections, pneumonia, bronchitis, dental abscesses, and other conditions. “This antibiotic is considered very effective and well tolerated by children,” she said.
Medicine shortages are more than just an inconvenience to those who need them, especially parents with sick children. Fortunately, there are other options for those who need treatment, but they won’t necessarily appear any time soon.
With antibiotics, it’s not as easy as asking the pharmacist to change the medicine to something else. If a drug is not available, pharmacists often have to call a doctor’s office and write a prescription for another drug, Johnston said.
“It takes time, and when your child doesn’t feel well, it can feel like an eternity,” Johnston said. “Alternative antibiotics exist, but they can often be more expensive, not as effective, or have side effects.”
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), amoxicillin is the first-line drug for treating conditions such as strep throat and middle ear infections. In some cases, other antibiotics such as cefdinir may be used.
“It’s best for your doctor to determine which alternative is best for your child’s unique situation,” adds Johnston. “There are many different antibiotics suitable for children, but some work better than others for certain conditions.”
Bloomberg reports that the FDA is working with manufacturers to resolve the issue, which is also currently affecting Canada and Australia.
If your child is sick and has been prescribed amoxicillin, be prepared to run out. If so, your doctor may prescribe it differently depending on your specific medical condition and other factors.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prescription and use of antibiotics: guidelines for pediatric outpatient therapy.
Posted by Mira Miller Mira Miller is a freelance writer specializing in mental health, women’s health, and culture.
Post time: Jun-29-2023