The Frustration of Drug Shortages

There have been a variety of shortages lately and this has been a source of frustration to our customers and our staff.  As a pharmacy, we certainly do not desire anything to be backordered, as we generally make our money by filling prescriptions.  Years ago, we would hear of shortages and be able to order large quantities ahead, but for many reasons, this is no longer an option.  The following are some reasons for the current shortages and drugs that are affected.

1. Some medications have unprecedented popularity and the manufacturers cannot keep up with demand.  Examples of these are Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro.  They are intermittently available then out.  When available, the amounts we can order are restricted by our wholesaler.

2. Many controlled substances are in short supply or out. (Norco, Adderall, Vyvanse, Concerta). Again, the demand for stimulants like Adderall and Methylphenidate has increased especially in adults.  Compounding this issue is the fact that the DEA restricts how much raw material can be manufactured each year for each controlled substance type.  We cannot stockpile controlled substances or risk our license.  

3. Consolidation of generic suppliers due to economic pressure has caused some shortages.  When one supplier goes out of business or decides not to make a certain product due to no financial gain, the other suppliers take a while to increase their production.  Also, natural disasters, fire has caused some facilities to shut down and therefore temporary shortages arise.

4. Shortage of the labor force has contributed to limitations on some manufacturers to supply product or get other supplies they need (bottles, springs, paper, etc.)

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What can you do?

To be fair to our customers, we cannot fill products in short supply for those who are not our customers.   If you are affected by a shortage, we can work with your provider to find a similar product if possible.  Sometimes, it may involve taking a different strength of the same medication or switching to a product in the same therapeutic class.  Some barriers to this can be getting the new script from the provider or dealing with the insurance company formulary.  We certainly understand if you need to look elsewhere for the product.  Because different pharmacies use different wholesalers, it is always possible that products may be available at on pharmacy and not another.  Hudson's does business with Amerisource Bergen, one of the 3 largest wholesalers in the United States.  Walgreens also uses this wholesaler.  Please realize that shortages are generally nationwide and affect more than our pharmacy.  We are always here to help to the best extent that we can.  Sometimes, unfortunately the options are limited.

Thank you for your patience and understanding during these difficult times!

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 Vaccine Information

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October 2023...We now have  Moderna COVID booster back in stock!   We have both the adult and pediatric formula. We are able to give this to patients age 5 and over.  These are covered by Medicare and insurance plans.  No appointment is needed.  We will have this at our clinics as well.  We do NOT have Pfizer at this time due to storage requirements.

Uninsured and need a COVID booster?  Go to www.covidaccess.com to print a voucher for a FREE COVID Vaccine.

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We now have the new RSV Vaccine (Arexvy) in stock.  It is approved for adults over 60 and covered at no charge by most insurances.  Currently, it is recommended to wait 2 weeks between Arexvy and other vaccines.

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Flu Vaccines are now in stock...regular and High Dose.  No appointment necessary

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