Looming Shortages of Medications to Treat Severe Lead Poisoning in the U.S.
Dimercaprol Is Now In Short Supply
Dimercaprol, a medication used to treat severe lead poisoning, is currently in short supply as a result of the bankruptcy of Akorn Pharmaceuticals, the drug's sole U.S. manufacturer. Health care practitioners are being forced in some cases to adopt less effective therapies.
According to the FDA, hospitals may temporarily import foreign versions.
Edetate calcium disodium (EDTA), another therapy for lead poisoning, is likewise in short supply. Despite of the lack of US approval, the FDA permitted hospitals to import an EDTA variant in October.
Children who consume paint chips or breathe in lead-contaminated dust, as well as adults who work in industrial jobs, are frequently those who develop lead poisoning. Abandoned telecommunications wires are another cause of lead pollution in soil and water. Children who have even slightly higher blood levels of lead may have memory loss, headaches, stomach cramps, and difficulty sleeping. Children that are poisoned with lead may vomit, as well as become lethargic, develop more slowly, and lose weight.
Learn more and track FDA reported drug shortages, by clicking here:
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/drug-shortages
Disclaimer: The above guide represents study materials; always seek and follow the advice of your medical provider for any acute or chronic medical issues or questions, and follow the protocols of your program or supervising agency.