I think this article was dated app FEB 21 2011, The online article is written by a on line marketing person..(May be drug industry bias). But the points in the article makes sense if you follow the drug and medication manufacturing industry. Actually this may have to do with all global manufacturing and the privileged that control it for profit… NOT FOR THE GOOD OF HUMANITY
“Most Americans aren’t aware that there is a serious drug shortage taking place and in many situations is creating life-threatening circumstances. Most of the drug shortages are affecting hospitals where drugs are administered through injection or IV. If you are going to the pharmacy to pick up pills, you are less likely to notice the impact of this shortage. But, if you are going to the hospital for your cancer treatment, there is a chance the medication you need may not be available.
The shortage is a result of many different factors from manufacturing difficulties, natural disasters that affect production, reductions in the supply of raw materials (of which 80% come from outside the U.S.), unexpected increases in demand, voluntary recalls, manufacturer business decisions, to FDA enforcement actions to ensure public safety and artificial shortages due to stockpiling. Most of these factors, the FDA has no control over.
More specifically, the FDA has no control over prescription drug manufacturer’s business decisions. If a manufacturer decides to stop production for whatever reason, the FDA cannot demand them to begin production again. It simply may not be profitable for the manufacturer to produce the drug. However, there is legislation in the works to at least require the manufacturers to provide formal notice so that people aren’t left to find out that the medications they need are no longer available when they attempt to re-order.
Another idea that is being thrown around is incentives. Offering drug manufacturers incentives to either continue or begin manufacturing the drugs that are being affected by this shortage. In the mean time people are left the deal with either the thought of running out or using risky alternatives (if any are even available). So, while there is hope for the drug shortage, it isn’t likely that there will be a solution very quickly”.
Amanda Williams – http://www.PEPID.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amanda_C_Williams
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5899192
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I haven’t tried the extended release variety either – I wonder if that is any better, especially if remembering to take the second dose is a problem. I find that my 20mg in the morning only lasts about 4 – 6 hours; is it better for you taking 2 doses AM and PM?