Positive Update on Succinylcholine Drug Shortage

On July 19, the Food and Drug Administration Drug Shortage Division reported that there are now two companies, Hospira and Sandoz, producing succinylcholine injections. The two manufacturers are now able to provide enough products to meet the market demands.  This is a positive development for patients and physicians across the country. In an April 2011 ASA survey on drug shortages, 47.6 percent of respondents reported currently experiencing a shortage of succinylcholine.

When ASA members first reported the shortage of succinylcholine, the ASA reached out to the FDA. Since that time, ASA has worked closely with the FDA on potential remedies for the shortage. ASA commends the great work performed by the FDA staff in helping to alleviate this shortage. While this is a positive development, ASA is fully aware that it will take time for the product to move through the market to become available to providers for use on patients.