What to Take If You Can’t Find Your Medication

Medication shortages continue to challenge patients and providers nationwide. When pharmacies cannot fill prescriptions, treatment delays can cause unnecessary stress and health complications. PD-Rx helps clinics overcome these shortages by offering reliable, physician-managed dispensing programs designed to maintain patient care even during supply chain disruptions.

Here’s what providers and patients should know about managing medication shortages safely.

Why Medication Shortages Occur

  • Supply chain delays

  • Ingredient shortages

  • Increased demand

  • Manufacturing issues

  • Regulatory changes

PD-Rx strategically monitors supply levels to help clinics avoid these interruptions.

What to Do When a Medication Is Unavailable

Step 1: Check Alternative Strengths or Forms

Often, a different dosage or formulation is still available, PD-Rx’s wide inventory helps clinics adjust quickly.

Step 2: Ask the Provider for Therapeutic Alternatives

Many medications have safe substitutes. Examples:

Common Shortage Categories & Substitutions

1. Blood Pressure Medications

  • ACE inhibitor shortage? → ARBs like losartan or valsartan

  • ARB shortage? → Calcium channel blockers or diuretics

PD-Rx carries robust inventories in all major categories.

2. ADHD Medications

  • Adderall shortage? → Methylphenidate-based alternatives

  • Vyvanse shortage? → Non-stimulants (atomoxetine)

PD-Rx helps clinics navigate these challenging transitions.

3. Antibiotics

  • Amoxicillin shortage → cephalexin or azithromycin

  • Doxycycline shortage → minocycline or ampicillin

PD-Rx ensures consistent access to common infection treatments.

4. Thyroid Medications

Shortages of levothyroxine may require:

  • Alternative strengths

  • Compounded options

  • Temporary substitutes

You can source these options through PD-Rx’s specialized dispensing programs.

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