Canadian companies are struggling with a shortage of antibiotics used to treat children.
Posted at 6:31 p.m.
According to Health Canada, four pharmaceutical companies are currently out of stock of drugs containing amoxicillin, an antibiotic frequently used to treat bronchitis, pneumonia and ear infections in children.
The federal agency, however, maintains that eight other companies do not have the same problems and can still supply amoxicillin.
This shortage occurs in a context of resurgence of diseases among children. Pediatric hospitals in Montreal, Ottawa, and Toronto are also reporting a high number of emergency room visits.
The problem is not unique to Canada, as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also reports a shortage of amoxicillin due to increased demand.
Health Canada said in a statement Friday that it will follow up with companies that report shortages and will “take action” with manufacturers, provinces and territories to resolve supply issues as needed.