US FDA launches app that alerts public about drug shortages

A mobile app that allows users to track drug shortages in the United States has been launched by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 

The app provides information about current shortages, resolved shortages and drug discontinuations. Users can also report shortages to the FDA through the app. 

“The FDA understands that healthcare professionals and pharmacists need real-time information about drug shortages to make treatment decisions,” says Valerie Jensen, associate director of the drug shortage staff in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. 

Release of the app is part of the FDA’s strategic plan — launched in October 2013 — for preventing and mitigating drug shortages. One of the tasks outlined in the plan was to enhance public communications about drug shortages, which the FDA regards as posing “a significant public health threat”. The app is free to download.

Last updated
Citation
The Pharmaceutical Journal, PJ, 14 March 2015, Vol 294, No 7853;294(7853):DOI:10.1211/PJ.2015.20068046

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