The FDA reports a notable decline in active drug shortages — from 194 in June to 80 as of February 12 — largely due to database updates, manufacturing recoveries, and reclassification of shortages. However, several recent discontinuities may still impact prescribing and inventory management.
Below are 12 drugs recently listed in shortage or discontinued status:
- Cefepime hydrochloride injection – 1g and 2g vials discontinued (used for pneumonia, UTIs, and other bacterial infections).
- Chlorothiazide oral suspension (Diuril) – 250mg/5mL formulation discontinued (hypertension and edema).
- Gemfibrozil (Lopid) 600mg tablets – Cholesterol-lowering medication discontinued.
- Pindolol 5mg and 10mg tablets – Beta blocker discontinued.
- Podofilox topical gel (Condylox 0.5%) – Treatment for genital warts discontinued.
- Benztropine mesylate injection – 1mg/mL vials discontinued (Parkinson’s disease and movement disorders).
- Fluvastatin sodium extended-release tablets 80mg (Lescol XL) – Multiple extended-release presentations discontinued.
- Azithromycin injection 500mg (ADD-Vantage vial) – Discontinued September 2025.
- Maraviroc oral solution (Selzentry 20mg/mL) – Distribution expected to end by August 2026.
- Piperacillin and tazobactam 2.25g injection – Broad-spectrum antibiotic vial discontinued.
- Riboflavin 5-phosphate ophthalmic solution (Photrexa kit) – Used in corneal cross-linking procedures; discontinued.
Because FDA shortage status can change frequently, providers are encouraged to review the official database and manufacturer communications (linked below) to assess potential impact on patient care, prescribing decisions, and supply planning.
Resource: 12 drugs in shortage