Here are six new drug shortages and discontinuations, according to drug supply databases from the FDA.
- Amlodipine besylate; benazepril hydrochloride capsule: Aurobindo Pharma USA and Novartis Pharmaceuticals have discontinued multiple strengths of this combination cardiovascular medication used to manage hypertension. Discontinued presentations include 2.5 mg to 10 mg amlodipine combined with 10 mg to 40 mg benazepril capsules. The discontinuation is attributed to business decisions.
- Docetaxel injection: Pfizer has discontinued the manufacture of multiple presentations of docetaxel injection, an oncology drug used to treat cancers including breast, lung and prostate cancer. Discontinued formulations include 10 mg/1 mL, 20 mg/2 mL single-dose vials and 160 mg/ 16 mL multiple-dose vials. The discontinuation is due to a business decision.
- Eszopiclone tablet: Teva Pharmaceuticals has discontinued all strengths (1 mg, 2 mg and 3 mg) of eszopiclone tablets, a neurology drug commonly prescribed for insomnia. The discontinuation is due to a business decision.
- Ezetimibe tablet: Actavis Pharma has discontinued all presentations of ezetimibe 10 mg tablets, a cardiovascular medication used to lower cholesterol. The discontinuation follows a business decision.
- Isoniazid tablet: Genus LifeSciences has discontinued isoniazid 300 mg tablets, an anti-infective used primarily to treat and prevent tuberculosis. The product is expected to be available until August.
- Mefloquine hydrochloride tablet: Chartwell Molecular Holdings and Teva Pharmaceuticals have reported a shortage of mefloquine hydrochloride 250 mg tablets, an anti-infective medication used to prevent and treat malaria. Both manufacturers’ presentations remain listed as available, though the FDA has classified the product as currently in shortage. No reason for the shortage has been provided.
