Coronavirus: America’s drug supply needs a refill

Photo Credit: NY Daily News/Getty Images

The coronavirus outbreak that originated in China could put the health of millions of Americans at risk — but not in the way most people imagine. Since China is the world’s leading supplier of the active ingredients used in medications, the epidemic may lead to a massive shortage of prescription drugs, and generic drugs in particular.

This emerging threat sheds light on a much larger problem: America’s precarious generic-drug supply chain has made life-threatening medication shortages into a constant danger. Safeguarding access to critical medicines will require reforms that give drug manufacturers the financial incentive to keep these drugs in good supply.

Drug shortages aren’t anything new for the nation’s health system. But they have grown increasingly common in recent years. In 2019, for instance, a shortage of the childhood cancer drug vincristine jeopardized the care of young patients around the country. And the growing scarcity of the widely-used blood-thinner heparin — which is essential for performing heart surgery — has many hospitals preparing for an emergency.

 
Sign Up for Our Email Newsletter

RECENT NEWS

Drug shortages reaching record levels
  • Scripps News
  • 09/19/2023 12:00 AM

Drug shortages reaching record levels

Drug Shortages reaching record levels in the United States in nearly a decade...  Read more

When It Comes to FDA Communications

When It Comes to FDA Communications

Perhaps the most important lesson learned from the COVID-19 experience is that American health illiteracy kills....  Read more

Center for Medicine in the Public Interest Statement on ITC TRIPS Waiver Report
  • CMPI
  • 10/18/2023 12:00 AM

Center for Medicine in the Public Interest Statement on ITC TRIPS Waiver Report

Yesterday, the U.S. International Trade Commission published its report on possible expansion of the TRIPS waiver on Covi...  Read more

DRUGWONKS BLOG