Abstract

America has a serious drug problem. The problem is not abuse of prescription stimulants by students cramming for the SATs, nor is it the recent spate of violent attacks associated with the use of so‐called bath salts. Rather, the problem is a shortage of critical medicines. The American Society of Health System Pharmacists reports that over two hundred drugs are in short supply. The frequency and number of drug shortages are also increasing steadily, as seen in a recent Food and Drug Administration study that found that the number of reported drug shortages has nearly tripled, from sixty‐two in 2005 to 178 in 2010. There are few quick solutions to the crisis, and the long‐term effect of pending legislation and regulatory changes is unclear.