Drug shortages continue to impact healthcare organizations nationwide. According to recent data, active shortages increased again during the first quarter of 2026, with more than 220 medications currently affected. The FDA continues to update its shortage database as manufacturers discontinue products, adjust production, or work to restore supply.
Below are eight recent drug shortage and discontinuation updates providers should be aware of:
1. Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride Injection
Slayback Pharma has discontinued certain 4 mcg/mL presentations of this sedative medication. Facilities using these products should review available alternatives and inventory levels.
2. Dacomitinib (Vizimpro) Tablets
Pfizer has discontinued all strengths of Vizimpro tablets. Practices treating patients with non-small cell lung cancer should monitor availability and discuss alternative treatment options when appropriate.
3. Leflunomide (Arava) Tablets
Sanofi-Aventis has discontinued multiple brand-name and generic formulations of leflunomide, a medication commonly used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions.
4. Ifosfamide Injection
Supply shortages continue for this chemotherapy medication. Several manufacturers report limited availability, with some products not expected to return to normal supply until later in 2026. Oncology providers should closely monitor inventory and supplier updates.
5. Donepezil/Memantine Extended-Release Capsules
Amneal Pharmaceuticals has discontinued two extended-release combination products used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Providers may need to evaluate alternative formulations for affected patients.
6. Lorlatinib (Lorbrena) Tablets
Pfizer has discontinued one bottle configuration of Lorbrena 25 mg tablets. While other package sizes remain available, practices should be aware of potential ordering changes.
7. Emtricitabine (Emtriva) Capsules
Gilead Sciences has discontinued the capsule formulation of Emtriva. Current inventory is expected to remain available through March 2027, allowing time for providers and patients to plan for future transitions.
8. Emtricitabine (Emtriva) Oral Solution
Gilead Sciences has also discontinued the oral solution formulation. Existing supply is expected to remain available through March 2027, but providers should begin evaluating long-term treatment alternatives where needed.
What This Means for Practices
Drug shortages and product discontinuations can create prescribing, inventory, and patient care challenges. Practices should stay informed about medications commonly used within their specialty, communicate with pharmacies and suppliers regarding availability, and develop contingency plans when shortages may affect treatment continuity.
Resource: 8 new drugs in shortage