6 drugs in shortage

Here are six new drug shortages and discontinuations, according to drug supply databases from the FDA.

1. Levothyroxine sodium tablet: EMD Serono has discontinued all presentations of Euthyrox levothyroxine tablets, an endocrinology drug prescribed for thyroid hormone replacement. Discontinued strengths include 25 ug to 200 ug tablets in multiple packaging formats. The discontinuation is due to the end of manufacturing.

2. Morphine sulfate injection: Hospira has discontinued the manufacture of three presentations of morphine sulfate injection, an analgesic used to manage pain. The discontinued formulations include 4 mg/1 mL, 8 mg/mL and 10 mg/mL injections. The discontinuation is due to the end of manufacturing.

3. Octreotide intramuscular injection kits: Teva has reported a shortage of 10 mg, 20 mg and 30 mg kits of octreotide acetate intramuscular injection, a drug used in endocrinology and oncology. No reason for the shortage has been provided. Novartis has Sandostatin LAR Depot kits available. Teva estimates resupply of the 10 mg kits in mid-June 2025 and the 20 mg and 30 mg kits in late June.

4. Oseltamivir phosphate capsule: Genentech has discontinued Tamiflu 30 mg capsules, an antiviral medication used to treat influenza. The discontinuation is due to the end of manufacturing.

5. Potassium chloride tablet, extended release: Mylan Pharmaceuticals has discontinued four presentations of its Potassium chloride tablet, used in endocrinology/metabolism and gastroenterology. Discontinued formulations include 8 mEq tablets. The discontinuation is due to the end of manufacturing.

6. Scopolamine transdermal system: Baxter and Teva have reported shortages of scopolamine transdermal patches, used to prevent motion sickness and nausea. Affected products include Baxter’s 1.5 mg patches and Teva’s 1.3 mg patches. Neither manufacturer provided a reason. Alternatives are available from Ingenus, Viatris, Padagis, Rhodes and Zydus. Teva expects some resupply between July and October 2025, while Baxter has not provided an estimated release date.