Cancer drug shortages continue in the U.S.
Cancer drug shortages continue in the U.S.
U.S. Cancer Centers Continue to Face Shortages of Chemotherapy Drugs
U.S. cancer centers continue to grapple with shortages of commonly used chemotherapy drugs, although the situation has improved since June. According to a survey conducted by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) in September, 72% of cancer centers reported a continued shortage of carboplatin, while 59% experienced a shortage of cisplatin. These two platinum-based generic chemotherapy medications are widely recommended for the treatment of various cancers. Overall, 86% of surveyed centers reported shortages of at least one type of anti-cancer drug.
The survey also revealed that methotrexate, 5-fluorouracil, fludarabine, and hydrocortisone were among the medications in short supply. Methotrexate was reported to be in short supply by 66% of centers, while 55% experienced a shortage of 5-fluorouracil. Fludarabine was in short supply at 45% of centers, and hydrocortisone was reported to be in short supply by 41% of centers.
These ongoing drug shortages are cause for concern, as they present significant challenges for cancer patients. Dr. Robert Carlson, CEO of NCCN, emphasized the importance of ensuring access to the best possible treatment for everyone impacted by cancer, in line with the latest evidence and expert consensus guidelines. He stated, “Drug shortages aren’t new, but the widespread impact makes this one particularly alarming. It is extremely concerning that this situation continues despite significant attention and effort over the past few months. We need enduring solutions in order to safeguard people with cancer and address any disparities in care.”
The survey conducted by NCCN included responses from 29 member institutions, which are leading academic centers across the United States. However, it is important to note that the findings may not fully reflect the challenges faced by smaller community practices serving rural and marginalized patients.
Despite the shortages, the surveyed centers were able to provide the necessary medications to all patients in need, thanks to their strict waste management strategies. However, the ongoing crisis calls for urgent action to address the systemic challenges that contribute to drug shortages.
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Alyssa Schatz, NCCN’s senior director of policy and advocacy, stated, “These drug shortages are the result of decades of systemic challenges. We recognize that comprehensive solutions take time.” While the network appreciates proposals aimed at improving investment in generic drugs, Schatz emphasized that the ongoing crisis necessitates immediate response and appropriate urgency.
In a recent report, CNN highlighted that two other drugs used for cancer treatment, vinblastine and dacarbazine, also faced shortages in September. These drugs are crucial in treating patients with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, one of the most curable types of cancer. Dr. Doug Hawkins of the Children’s Oncology Group expressed his frustration with the situation, stating, “The problem is never-ending. It is horrible. I mean, to say to a patient, ‘we know how to treat your child, but we can’t get the drugs,’ and this is America, and it’s 2023 — it’s crazy.”
The NCCN continues to advocate for increased supplies of chemotherapy drugs to address the ongoing crisis. Efforts are needed to strengthen the supply chain for cancer drugs, ensuring that all cancer patients have access to the medications necessary for their treatment.
For more information on strengthening the supply chain for cancer drugs, please visit the White House website.
Sources
- National Comprehensive Cancer Network. News release, Oct. 5, 2023.
- CNN, Sept. 26, 2023
