Drug Shortages in U.S. are Affecting Patients' Health
By: Shayna Halper
Updated: January 2, 2013
WHAG - A recent study showed drug shortages in the U.S. are starting to affect patients' health.
The study, from the New England Journal of Medicine, found young patients with blood cancer, Hodgkin's Lymphoma, could not get a vital medication because of a national shortage.
The study shows this made them more likely to suffer relapses, than those who got the preferred medication. Fortunately, that shortage was quickly resolved.
Pharmacists at Chambersburg Hospital say shortages in certain drugs are common. They say they're aware of the problem to resolve it for patients.
"We're able to obtain the medications for the patients whether it be the exact medication in ready to use form, or substitute form," says Jeanette Dean, Pharmacy Manager. "But they shouldn't be concerned because we're able to work with providers in the area to obtain a suitable regimen for their treatment."
The study, from the New England Journal of Medicine, found young patients with blood cancer, Hodgkin's Lymphoma, could not get a vital medication because of a national shortage.
The study shows this made them more likely to suffer relapses, than those who got the preferred medication. Fortunately, that shortage was quickly resolved.
Pharmacists at Chambersburg Hospital say shortages in certain drugs are common. They say they're aware of the problem to resolve it for patients.
"We're able to obtain the medications for the patients whether it be the exact medication in ready to use form, or substitute form," says Jeanette Dean, Pharmacy Manager. "But they shouldn't be concerned because we're able to work with providers in the area to obtain a suitable regimen for their treatment."
