Here are 20 new drug shortages to know, according to databases compiled by the FDA and the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. 

Lexington-based University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy has begun integrating the use of AI into its classes. The technology is being used not only to streamline administrative tasks, but to foster student engagement and strengthen problem-solving skills. 

There is growing interest in microdosing weight loss drugs like Ozempic, with some users reporting positive results despite limited evidence and mixed opinions from experts, The New York Times reported Dec. 5. 

Cencora, a global pharmaceutical distribution company, has launched Accelerate Pharmacy Solutions, a portfolio of services aimed at helping hospitals and health systems improve operations and financial performance. 

Blue Shield of California is set to launch a drug benefit initiative in January, partnering with Amazon Pharmacy and pharmacy benefit manager Abarca, Forbes reported Dec. 5. 

To reduce medication costs and mitigate drug shortages, Penn Medicine is uniting with Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Co., the health system said Dec. 6.

As major drugstore chains and independent pharmacies continue to shut down across the U.S., many communities are experiencing a rise in "pharmacy deserts," where access to medications and healthcare services is limited, CBS News reported Dec. 6. 

The FDA approved a new cancer treatment called Bizengri for adults with certain types of lung and pancreatic cancers. 

Healthcare groups are reacting to Novo Nordisk's recent petition to the FDA to prevent compounding pharmacies from producing unapproved — and often cheaper — versions of weight loss injection Wegovy and diabetes treatment Ozempic. 

Minnesota providers participating in the federal 340B Drug Pricing Program generated at least $630 million in net revenue in 2023, according to a new report from the state Department of Health. 

The push to develop the first oral GLP-1 receptor drug for obesity is heating up, as three phase 3 drugs race to become the first approved oral treatment for obesity, Global Data reported Dec. 2. 

Experts in healthcare and the pharmaceutical industry have questioned Mark Cuban's ability to puncture high-priced medicines. In a 90-minute fireside chat with one of his critics, Mr. Cuban said his company has "truly changed the game."

A new phase 3 clinical trial found that Eli Lilly's weight loss drug Zepbound resulted in significantly greater weight loss than Wegovy. 

Between 2018 and 2021, more pharmacies closed in the U.S. than opened, according to research published Dec. 3 in Health Affairs.

CVS Health is preparing to raise up to $2.5 billion through a bond sale, Bloomberg reported Dec. 2. 

 Nine out of 10 drug prices negotiated by CMS remain more expensive in the U.S. compared to six other high-income countries, according to a study published Dec. 2.

Clearway Health has entered into a partnership with Sinai Chicago to expand specialty pharmacy services aimed at improving care for patients facing chronic conditions like multiple sclerosis, cancer and cystic fibrosis. 

Becker's asked pharmacy executives from hospitals and health systems across the U.S. to share their plans on improving patient care in the near future.

Amid continued demand and coverage restrictions around GLP-1s, the prices of Novo Nordisk's Ozempic and Rybelsus have dropped significantly for individuals covered by Medicare and commercial insurance, according to a new report from HHS.

Among 1,363 practicing pharmacists, 82.5% reported some familiarity with AI software, but only 38.7% said they had used it, according to survey results published Nov. 28.