Post by healthy11 on Jul 1, 2013 20:51:08 GMT -5
A few years ago, there was a documented shortage of some ADHD meds (http://millermom.proboards.com/thread/11959/shortages-adhd-medications ) and it appears that the problem has arisen again. In an email I just received from CHADD, they said the demand for methylphenidate generic products (Ritalin) has grown from a shortage in two companies to six companies today. Pharmacists are finding it harder to order and it is taking longer to fill orders. CHADD is requesting the public's help to determine how widespread the problem is.
If you are a parent, please answer the patient questions. We need to hear from you even if you are having no problems, so we can gauge how serious any growing shortage might be. The survey will only take a few minutes to fill out and can help ensure that there is an adequate supply of stimulant medication available.
CHADD and AACAP (American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry) are poised to take action. Due to our concerns on this issue in 2012, the FDASIA law now contains a mechanism for addressing shortages of medications that come under the purview of the Drug Enforcement Agency. The Secretary of Health and Human Services (FDA's mother agency) can request the Attorney General of the Justice Department (DEA's mother agency) to consider what actions the DEA should take to address the shortage and respond in 30 days. We already have a meeting scheduled with the FDA and will be asking for a meeting with Secretary Sebelius once we have a large enough response rate to the survey.
In the meantime, what can you do? You may have to call several pharmacies to find one in your area that has medication available. Report your shortage to the Food and Drug Administration by emailing drugshortages@fda.hhs.gov with the specific name of the medication, the dosage and where you are located. And most importantly, please complete this short survey by July 8. www.additudemag.com/adhdblogs_19/print/9310.html
If you are a parent, please answer the patient questions. We need to hear from you even if you are having no problems, so we can gauge how serious any growing shortage might be. The survey will only take a few minutes to fill out and can help ensure that there is an adequate supply of stimulant medication available.
CHADD and AACAP (American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry) are poised to take action. Due to our concerns on this issue in 2012, the FDASIA law now contains a mechanism for addressing shortages of medications that come under the purview of the Drug Enforcement Agency. The Secretary of Health and Human Services (FDA's mother agency) can request the Attorney General of the Justice Department (DEA's mother agency) to consider what actions the DEA should take to address the shortage and respond in 30 days. We already have a meeting scheduled with the FDA and will be asking for a meeting with Secretary Sebelius once we have a large enough response rate to the survey.
In the meantime, what can you do? You may have to call several pharmacies to find one in your area that has medication available. Report your shortage to the Food and Drug Administration by emailing drugshortages@fda.hhs.gov with the specific name of the medication, the dosage and where you are located. And most importantly, please complete this short survey by July 8. www.additudemag.com/adhdblogs_19/print/9310.html
