Navigating Cold and Flu Medication Shortages

In recent months, patients, parents, and providers have become increasingly aware of the rise in viral infection rates. With the tripledemic — including COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and flu — in full swing, providers are doing their best to treat patients’ symptoms as they wait out infection. Despite best efforts, patients, parents, and providers struggle to navigate these illnesses with the ongoing cold and flu medication shortage.

An article published in Healthline on December 6, 2022, notes that the FDA, parents, and pharmacists have seen a shortage of prescription and over-the-counter medications used to treat pediatric ear infections, sore throats, flu, and respiratory viruses. Many attribute this supply chain shortage to increased demand, noting that pharmaceutical manufacturers cannot keep up with the necessary supply of medications.

According to the CDC, RSV infection rates are approximately 53% greater this year than in previous years. Many hospitals have found themselves overcrowded and understaffed due to these heightened rates. Despite vaccines in the works, a current lack of prevention mechanisms and antivirals for this respiratory illness — in addition to its tendency to infect pediatric populations — has left healthcare professionals concerned.

Alongside the RSV infection rate, public health officials have noted higher influenza infection rates. A CDC report released on November 28, 2022, shared that there have been 12 pediatric influenza-associated deaths this season. Many believe an additional sample after the holidays would indicate even higher infection rates.

A Healthline article notes that, early in this flu season, Tamiflu prescription rates exceed anticipated rates from previous seasons. This uptick in prescriptions and demand has caused a shortage in medication. Healthline notes, “this is a serious problem for young kids as Tamiflu is currently the only medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of influenza in children less than five years of age.”

In addition to prescription drug shortages, many parents have noticed a lack of children’s Tylenol and Motrin; medications often used to manage symptoms and reduce fever.

With the increased rates of infection, the ongoing covid pandemic, and a lack of available medications, doctors and healthcare industry members strongly recommend taking as many preventative measures as possible. Patients who have not gotten their influenza or COVID vaccine shots are strongly urged to do so if they are eligible.

In an interview earlier this year, Julie Swann, PhD, affiliate faculty in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at NC State and the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, told PharmaNewsIntelligence that “The healthcare industry needs to vaccinate more people against influenza — there are several ways to do that — and we need to continue vaccinating with the fall COVID vaccine.”

Also, proper hygiene and public health practices such as regular handwashing, social distancing, and wearing masks can prevent infection and remove the need for medications altogether.

Patients who find themselves sick and unable to find medications at their local pharmacy have multiple options. They can speak to their local pharmacists and look at other nearby locations. Instead of other availabilities, they can also contact their healthcare providers for alternative formulations. Aside from medications, many providers recommend staying hydrated and well nourished as it will help the immune system fight off illness.