Drugs

Congress Urges FDA to Do More on Ibuprofen Shortage

A letter from six House Democrats urges FDA to do more to help resolve the ongoing shortage of pediatric ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Over the past six months, an increase in demand has been attributed to recent surges in Covid-19, respiratory syncytial virus and influenza, any of which can cause fever in young children.

“Unfortunately, despite round-the-clock efforts from manufacturers, demand for these medicines is outpacing supply,” the 2/22 letter says. “We appreciate the steps that the FDA has already taken to combat this shortage, including the agency’s recently issued guidance regarding drug compounding for certain ibuprofen suspensions, which allows healthcare providers and pharmacists to make ibuprofen in-house if they have the necessary raw ingredients available.”

The letter notes that while Congress works to find a legislative solution to the rates of production, FDA should take further actions to address the shortage issue, including disseminating updated guidance to pharmacists and healthcare providers about available alternatives for pediatric ibuprofen and acetaminophen, as well as dosage conversions. It also encourages FDA to ask for additional information from manufacturers about their supply location and the product distribution based on consumer demand for such medications. “With additional data about drugs’ location and differences in demand, the FDA can help assist manufacturers distribute supply more evenly, preventing such sudden shortages in different areas around the country,” it says.

Additionally, the lawmakers ask FDA to communicate proactively to caregivers regarding the shortage. “Many caregivers have been contending with this shortage for several months, causing understandable distress and confusion,” it says. “Direct communication from the FDA through a public outreach campaign will help to alleviate concerns and prevent misinformation. As cases of pediatric illnesses remain steadily high, a stronger response from the FDA is necessary to ensure that children are able to recover safely and swiftly.”

The letter was signed by Reps. Ro Khanna (D-CA), Barbara Lee (D-CA), Sara Jacobs (D-CA), Troy Carter (D-LA), Bennie Thompson (D-MI) and Jamaal Bowman (D-NY).

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