Prescription and nonprescription drug shortages are not a new phenomenon. The recent health crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted a chronic shortage of drugs and medical equipment in many western countries. This is a growing problem for Europe's national health systems. In recent years, shortages of all types of drugs have become increasingly common in hospital pediatrics and primary care and pose a threat to the health of adults and children in Europe and the US. As early as April 2020, the Alliance of European University Hospitals warned that the increasing demand from intensive care units for anesthetics, antibiotics, muscle relaxants, and “off-label” drugs for the treatment of COVID-19 could lead to stock-outs.3 However, after 2020, with declining production, logistical problems, and export and storage bans due to the current pandemic-related health crisis, the risk of shortage has increased.
Drug Shortages in Pediatrics in Europe: The Position of the European Pediatric Societies
Massimo Pettoello-Mantovani
2023-01-01
Abstract
Prescription and nonprescription drug shortages are not a new phenomenon. The recent health crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted a chronic shortage of drugs and medical equipment in many western countries. This is a growing problem for Europe's national health systems. In recent years, shortages of all types of drugs have become increasingly common in hospital pediatrics and primary care and pose a threat to the health of adults and children in Europe and the US. As early as April 2020, the Alliance of European University Hospitals warned that the increasing demand from intensive care units for anesthetics, antibiotics, muscle relaxants, and “off-label” drugs for the treatment of COVID-19 could lead to stock-outs.3 However, after 2020, with declining production, logistical problems, and export and storage bans due to the current pandemic-related health crisis, the risk of shortage has increased.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.