Rarely do companies discontinue a drug as a matter of business interest. In fact, this happens in only 2% of the cases. During those times, the company may consider profitability, manufacturing costs, distribution quota, and patent life among other issues that are all about the bottom line. Every other time, drug shortages are brought on by other factors; Factors that are usually beyond the control of the manufacturer or the FDA. Just like other entities in the manufacturing field, drug manufacturers often suffers disruptions that cause an inadvertent shortage of a medically necessary drug that is absolutely critical to proper patient care.

The very foundation of a disruption in supply chain is manufacturing and quality issues. Often there will be an issue with the old outdated equipment, which will often require repair or replacement. There might also be unexpected issues with the product composition or even a low supply …