Shortage of drugs in US ‘leading to deaths’

Number of unavailable drugs has tripled since 2005 and is expected to climb again this year.

pills tablets medicine

A shortage of cancer drugs, antibiotics and anaesthetics is being blamed for at least 15 deaths in the US.

Angry doctors say manufacturers seeking profits are to blame and politicians are now demanding action.

The medical fraternity says the problem lies with the US Food and Drug Administration, which does not require companies to report impending shortages, so doctors, hospitals and patients are often blindsided by the lack of supply.

Al Jazeera’s Kimberly Halkett reports from Washington.

Source: Al Jazeera