The FDA reports there is currently an amoxicillin shortage. The type of amoxicillin used by children is in short supply. The drug treats bacterial infections, such as pneumonia or dental abscesses. Amoxicillin can also be used with other antibiotics and medicines to treat stomach ulcers. It is usually prescribed for children with ear infections and chest infections. It comes in capsules, chewable tablets, or an oral liquid. The FDA listed the liquid form of amoxicillin as the one in short supply.
Multiple pharmaceutical companies have reported shortages of various doses commonly used to treat bacterial infections in children. The FDA listed “increased demand” as the reason for most companies’ shortages. It only lists drugs on its website once it has confirmed that “the manufacturers of the product are not meeting overall market demand.” The FDA admitted they didn’t consider amoxicillin to go into shortage partly because at least one manufacturer could fully supply the market demand.
Amoxicillin doesn’t treat COVID-19, RSV, or the flu. Still, the drug’s limited supply comes when many pediatric hospitals across the country say they are reaching capacity due to an early surge in respiratory illnesses. The supply issues aren’t impacting many pharmacies. However, there have been regionalized reports of shortages in specific CVS stores. A Walgreens spokesman said the chain was not experiencing any shortages.
