Epidural drugs

Epidurals, as we call them, are a group IV medications that are prepared in inpatient pharmacies, often with a narcotic analgesic drug that are is injected into the epidural space of the spinal canal.

The purpose of administering a narcotic analgesic drug into the spinal canal is to reduce pain and supplement general and local anesthesia, such as during childbirth. Just so happens that Haloperidol, which is commonly administered with Fentanyl, has also been reported by FDA as available in limited supply; Fentanyl is still on the short list as well. Oh, and by the way, these drugs are usually diluted in a fluid such as sugar water (Dextrose in water) or salt water (Normal saline) before it ever leaves the IV room. Such fun work, if I must say so myself!

Interesting, huh? Yeah, I thought so, too. That's why I announce this stuff, in the first place ;-)

Click the title above (Epidural drugs) for more details.

Drug Shortages

Propofol, an anesthetic drug administered in hospitals, was made very popular when Michael Jackson passed away. Recently, there has been even more buzz about Propofol, as the legalities surrounding the King of Pop's death play out. Well, the FDA announced today that there is a shortage of Propofol and it's generic equivalent, diprivan. The pharmaceutical manufacturer "Teva" has discontinued Propofol. However, Hospira, Inc. and APP Pharmaceuticals are reported has having ample supply to meet market demands.

For individuals suffering from Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), the shortage of the generic equivalent of Ritalin, methylphenidate hydrochloride, may cause concern. Sandoz Pharmaceuticals (Novartis) are reported as having sporadic backorders, while another pharmaceutical company called "Mallinckrodt" is also experiencing a short supply of methylphenidate. Mallinckrodt's shortage of methylphenidate hydrochloride may be indefinite.

The good news is at least three other pharmaceutical manufacturers are fully stocked with methylphenidate hydrochloride. The bad news is the number of tablets that you will be able to obtain is limited because methylphenidate hydrochloride is classified by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) as a narcotic.

For more details, click on the title above (Drug Shortages). Also, check with your local pharmacy for availability of methylphenidate hydrochloride, and check with your doctor to make sure the date on your prescription for methylphenidate hydrochloride is recent enough to be filled at a pharmacy.