A cardiologist warns that five common medications—NSAIDs, certain chemotherapy drugs, stimulants, older diabetes medications, and decongestants—may silently harm the heart, especially with frequent or high-dose use, urging patients to consult healthcare providers for safer alternatives and monitoring.
A survey conducted by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network reveals that major cancer centers in the US are still facing widespread shortages of critical chemotherapy drugs. Among the surveyed centers, 72% reported a shortage of carboplatin and 59% reported a shortage of cisplatin, both of which are commonly used in cancer treatment. Overall, 86% of the centers reported a shortage of at least one type of anti-cancer drug. The ongoing drug shortages, which have been exacerbated this year, are a cause for concern as they impact access to the best possible treatment for cancer patients. The survey highlights the need for enduring solutions to address these shortages and ensure equitable care for all cancer patients.
Many U.S. hospitals are facing a drug shortage crisis, struggling to find chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics, and other essential treatments. A survey by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists revealed that about one-third of hospitals have skipped, delayed, or prescribed less medication due to supply gaps, impacting patient care. The shortages are categorized as moderately impactful or critically impactful, forcing doctors to ration, delay, or cancel treatments. Hospitals are experiencing difficulties in obtaining corticosteroids, oral liquids, "crash cart" drugs, ADHD medications, and injectable opioids. Chemotherapy treatments are particularly affected. Experts are calling for federal government action to address the widespread problem and reduce disruptions in the drug supply chain.