Supply tensions for the antibiotic clarithromycin, particularly its drinkable version for children, should see a gradual improvement “in the coming weeks”, announced the National Medicines Safety Agency (ANSM) on Thursday.
These disruptions, which have lasted for two months, are due to a whooping cough epidemic which caused an increase in demand. “Supplies are planned and should allow a gradual improvement in the situation on the ground in the coming weeks,” specifies the ANSM in a press release.
Measures taken in the fall
Faced with these difficulties, the health authority had already taken measures in the fall, asking laboratories to prioritize deliveries from pharmacies via wholesalers to guarantee equitable distribution across the territory. She also advised health professionals to “temporarily” reserve this medication for children weighing less than 4 kg, while reminding that there are therapeutic alternatives.
To compensate for the numerous shortages, the ANSM had also authorized compounding pharmacies to manufacture clarithromycin capsules dosed at 250 mg and 500 mg.
An improvement for amoxicillin
Furthermore, supplies of amoxicillin, another antibiotic which had experienced shortages, are no longer in the red. “Compared to last winter, the situation of supplies of amoxicillin and amoxicillin clavulanic acid has significantly improved,” underlines the ANSM. However, she tempers it by mentioning “punctual and local tensions” and stocks still insufficiently replenished at wholesalers.
Regarding other medications under close surveillance, such as paracetamol and oral corticosteroids, the ANSM wants to be reassuring. “Needs are generally met to date,” she indicates, even if the winter period remains conducive to a strong circulation of viruses.
Health
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