Steps to be taken:
(1) Determine if there is a recall on existing stock of the drug.
(2) Determine the cause for the shortage and the predicted duration.
(3) Determine if the drug can still be ordered from suppliers.
(4) Identify suitable alternatives.
(5) Restrict access to current drug supplies.
(6) Prioritize who should receive the drug.
(7) Develop a risk management plan including incident reporting.
(8) Inform providers of the problem and steps being taken.
A suitable alternative may include:
(1) the same drug prepared by a different manufacturer
(2) a different formulation or strength of the drug
(3) a different drug of the same class
(4) a different class of drugs that may be effective
It is important to keep an eye out for counterfeit drugs.
The pharmacy should be prepared to handle:
(1) any changes in potency
(2) any change in preparation
(3) any change in ordering
(4) any change in distribution and storage
(5) any change in administration
(6) any change in monitoring
