The AMA recently signed on to a letter to the DEA regarding shortages of injectable Schedule II Controlled Substances that are increasingly needed for ventilation of COVID-19 patients. The letter asked the DEA to increase the quotas for the production of these products, which include morphine, hydromorphone, fentanyl and other opioids.

After receiving the letter, the DEA immediately responded and increased the quotas.

The DEA has also issued two exceptions to regulations for DEA-registered hospital/clinics in an effort to facilitate continuous patient care during the COVID-19 pandemic. It has established regular communication with the AMA and other organizations who signed the letter to identify controlled substances that are in short supply and monitor the rapidly changing situation.

ISMA has been asked to keep the AMA informed about whether members are finding continued shortages of injectable Schedule II Controlled Substances. If you encounter shortages of these injectable Schedule II drugs, please let ISMA know by using our Member Input Tool.

Thank you for your assistance!