Pueblo pharmacy braces for the possible impact of a nationwide amoxicillin shortage

PUEBLO, Colo. (KRDO) -- A nationwide shortage of one of the most widely-prescribed antibiotics could soon impact parts of Southern Colorado.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first posted amoxicillin on its Current and Resolved Drug Shortages and Discontinuations list on Oct. 28, 2022.

A Pueblo pharmacy that's served the community for 65 years said this is the first time they've seen an antibiotic shortage this early in the cold and flu season. While Broadway Pharmacist has supplies for the next few weeks, once that's gone, doctors will have to prescribe something else.

Pharmacist Erick Yoxey said it's been about three weeks since their suppliers sent liquid amoxicillin to their store.

“We really try to backstock during this time of the year,” said Yoxey. Still, supplies are low.  

Yoxey said in the last week they’ve seen more than 25 people with amoxicillin prescriptions. He explained the store also gets calls daily to see if they have any of the antibiotics.

He said it's only a matter of time before it starts to affect local clinics.

Pediatrician Elizabeth A. Erhardt with Stepping Stone Pediatrics said if the amoxicillin shortage hits Southern Colorado, it could lead to more severe infections during the peak of flu season.

Before speaking to KRDO, Erhardt said she prescribed amoxicillin to a child suffering from an ear infection.

“If you have to switch to a different medication it’s going to be a broader spectrum. The organisms that could be causing the infection can become more, we can breed more resistance organisms, then make the next infection harder to treat,” Ehrhardt said. 

Right now, the primary concern is the liquid version of the antibiotic.

Earhardt said she'll continue prescribing amoxicillin while supplies last, but she is planning for the possible shortage.