You’ve seen the headlines in the news. Medication shortages: an alarming trend that continues to gain momentum. 2024 has seen the highest numbers of drug shortages on record in the United States. The repercussions ripple far and wide, casting shadows of concern over patient safety and healthcare efficacy.
Why Can’t I Find My Medicine?
Medication shortages arise from a variety of factors, including manufacturing issues, regulatory constraints, supply chain disruptions, increased demand, and market dynamics.
“There is a decreased availability of generic medications because the profitability on them is so thin. So manufactures only produce ‘x’ number for a certain year and once the supply is gone, it’s gone. And they won’t make it again for a few more quarters or a year,” says Susan Wright, Vice President of Pharmacy Services at Wellstar.
These complexities often lead to interruptions in the availability of essential drugs, impacting patient care worldwide.
Semiglutides, Record Number Shortages and Calls to Poison Control
Across the world, healthcare systems are struggling with unprecedented medication shortages. From essential antibiotics to life-saving cancer treatments, the scarcity knows no bounds. This scarcity often leads patients to desperate measures, including resorting to alternative sources or adjusting dosages without medical supervision. The consequence? A surge in calls to poison control centers, as individuals unknowingly fall prey to incorrect dosages or counterfeit medications.
Semiglutides, injected medications used for diabetes and weight loss, are one of the most in-demand products right now. The popular medication has been hard to find since the spring of 2022, when the shortage paved the way for compound pharmacies to create their versions. Consumers also turned to other sources like overseas pharmacies and social media to secure the injectable.
These sources come with a long list of potential dangers. From counterfeit pills to unlicensed sellers peddling dubious remedies, the risks are manifold. Without the safeguards of a licensed pharmacy, individuals are left vulnerable to exploitation and harm.
Semiglutides, injected medications used for diabetes and weight loss, are one of the most in-demand products right now. The popular medication has been hard to find since the spring of 2022, when the shortage paved the way for compound pharmacies to create their versions. Consumers also turned to other sources like overseas pharmacies and social media to secure the injectable.
These sources come with a long list of potential dangers. From counterfeit pills to unlicensed sellers peddling dubious remedies, the risks are manifold. Without the safeguards of a licensed pharmacy, individuals are left vulnerable to exploitation and harm.
Poison control centers in the United States have seen an explosion in calls specifically regarding weight-loss injectables. There have been nearly 3,000 reports about semiglutide exposure in 2023, at least 15 times more than in 2019. Most of the calls were due to dosing errors. The Food and Drug Administration warns against taking compounded versions of semiglutides due to adverse effects that have been reported.
The Gray Market and Compound Pharmacies: A Double-Edged Sword
Amidst the chaos, the gray market thrives. Enterprising individuals exploit the desperation of patients by offering medications through unregulated channels, often at exorbitant prices.
“Sometimes the only place to obtain these medications is on the gray market. So, then you are making determinations. You have these folks that will come through and purchase as much as they can of the remaining stock on the shelf. Then they mark up the price 10 times. So, then you are put in a position of ‘Do I pay the extra money? Do I trust the source?’,” says Wright.
Compound pharmacies, while providing customized medications for specific needs, pose their own set of risks when demand outstrips supply. Inadequate oversight and quality control measures open the door to substandard or contaminated medications, further jeopardizing patient safety.
Wright cautions: “Lots of risk associated there because once again you don’t know where that product is coming from or exactly how it was prepared for administration. You put yourself at risk. Some people buy medications from overseas. There is risk there too because not every country regulates the production of pharmaceuticals the way the United States does.”
Navigating Safely: Tips for Patients
In the face of these challenges, patients must arm themselves with knowledge and caution. Here are some essential tips:
Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Never adjust your medication regimen without consulting a qualified healthcare professional. They can provide guidance and explore alternative options to ensure your safety.
Stick to Licensed Pharmacies: Purchase medications only from reputable, licensed pharmacies or healthcare providers like Wellstar. Avoid the temptation of unregulated sources, no matter how enticing the offer may seem.
Verify Sources: Before purchasing medications online or through social media, verify the legitimacy of the source. Look for accreditation and reviews from trusted sources to mitigate the risk of counterfeit products.
Stay Informed: Keep up to date with medication shortages and recalls through reliable sources such as government health agencies or reputable medical news outlets. Knowledge is your best defense against potential dangers.
Report Suspected Fraud: If you encounter suspicious activity or believe you’ve received counterfeit medications, report it immediately to the relevant authorities. Your vigilance could help prevent harm to others.
