How to navigate drug shortages

Factories making medications are located all over the world. Issues at any step of the production process can make it harder for companies to make enough medication. This can lead to a drug shortage.

Common reasons for shortages include:

• Manufacturing issues: Problems with quality control and factory shutdowns can disrupt the production of medicines.
• Increased demand: Public health emergencies, natural disasters, or other issues can lead to a spike in demand and production can't keep up.
• Regulatory challenges: Problems passing rigorous inspection, regulations, or recalls may temporarily remove a medication from the market.
• Logistical issues: Shortages of the raw materials to make the medication or delays in transportation can make it difficult to meet demand.
• Economic factors: Medicines with low profits can cause manufacturers to reduce production or stop making it.

While there are steps you can take to ease the frustrations of a drug shortage, you can't control how long a shortage will last. But your doctor and insurance company can help you stay on your treatment plan through a few options.

• Coverage of substitutes: Insurance plans may cover alternative drugs, therapies, or cover brand names if a generic is unavailable.
• Emergency authorizations: Insurers may temporarily cover a medication not on your approved drug list during a shortage.
• Prior authorization flexibility: Insurers may waive prior authorization requirements or simplify the process easier to help you access drugs faster.