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Consolidation among generic drug manufacturers, as well as manufacturers deciding to end production of marginally profitable drugs, has led to decreased capacity. However, the shortages are caused primarily by problems with sterility and other serious issues that have led to shutdowns of production lines and occasionally entire factories. Recalls of huge batches of some drugs due to contamination by bacteria, fungi and tiny glass or metal particles have exacerbated shortages. Barely an hour after announcing the importation decision, the FDA reported that Fresenius Kabi USA, the German drugmaker's U.S. unit, is recalling a large batch of its magnesium sulfate injection because of "the potential presence of glass particles" in the vials in which it was shipped. The product is used to treat magnesium deficiency and to prevent and control seizures caused by severe toxemia, a complication in about 5 percent of pregnancies that can harm or kill the mother and fetus. A news release from Fresenius said there have been no reports of patient harm so far. It said particles were visible in some vials, and that glass particles in injectable drugs could cause life-threatening blood clots or block off small blood vessels. The drug shortages force pharmacists at hospitals and clinics to spend considerable time trying to find supplies of crucially needed medicines. The problem also is adding millions of dollars to the cost of patient care, as some unscrupulous secondary drug wholesalers have been price-gouging hospitals, first hoarding supplies of scarce drugs and then charging astronomical prices for normally inexpensive generic medicines the hospitals cannot get from their regular suppliers. Under a law passed last year, all drug manufacturers must notify the FDA of any production changes that could lead to drug shortages. Meanwhile, FDA officials say they are working with manufacturers to fix underlying problems with quality control and contamination that are responsible for the wave of shortages. "In the near term companies are letting us know about these problems early on, which is good news," said Jensen. "Over the longer term we're hoping we'll have a safer drug supply as these companies upgrade and modernize their facilities." Jensen said American Regent is in the process of resuming drug operations, but because of the extended shutdown it will take time to ramp up production to the levels needed. She said the FDA will continue to allow nutritional imports as long as necessary.
[Associated
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