Puerto Rico, which produces more pharmaceuticals by dollar value for the nation than any of the individual 50 states or any foreign country, has been key to the supply of these IV saline bags. Since early November, the US Food and Drug Administration has issued updates and guidance to hospitals and medical facilities.
Who makes IV solution?
Over time, the production has become concentrated and constrained, with nearly all IV solutions in the US market being manufactured by three companies: ICU Medical, Baxter and B. Braun—with Baxter concentrating its SVP manufacturing in Puerto Rico.
Is there still an IV bag shortage?
Nearly two years after the storm, the dearth of sodium chloride 0.9% injection bags continues, according to FDA's drug shortage database. "IV fluids are a fundamental component of patient care to hydrate patients, administer drugs, and replace lost blood volume.
Can I buy my own IV bags?
If you're wondering where IV bags are manufactured, they are created and distributed by companies around the world. You can get empty IV bags directly from some medical supply manufacturers, although filling them yourself is not recommended.
What company makes IV bags?
Fresenius Kabi, leader in infusion and nutrition therapy, is one of the largest and most capable manufacturers of IV bags in the world.
What percentage of IV bags are made in Puerto Rico?
Baxter International Inc., whose plants in Puerto Rico produce 44% of the IV bags used in U.S. hospitals, sustained major damage from Hurricane Maria. The FDA has said production at the plants, which now have intermittent power and back-up generators, is still "fragile" but should improve.
Where is saline manufactured?
Update: The Food and Drug Administration has given Baxter International permission to import saline and other intravenous solutions from its manufacturing facilities in Australia and Ireland to ease shortages in the United States, according to letters that the company sent its customers on Monday.
Is there a shortage of IV bags?
Another shortage making waves is the lack of IV bags. Part of it is a shortage of saline, which is produced and stored in IV bags. It puts a strain on the entire industry, from the manufacturers producing the supplies to the medical centers that rely on them for patient care.
What companies make IV bags?
The companies holding the largest market share in the Intravenous (IV) Solution Manufacturing industry include Baxter International Inc., B. Braun Medical Inc. and ICU Medical Inc.
Is there a shortage of IV fluids?
Although some shortages of large-volume saline solutions are attributable to problems at manufacturing facilities, increased demand for intravenous fluids due to a severe influenza season has also contributed to the current short supply. Saline shortages can affect patient care in various ways.
Is there a saline shortage 2021?
The affected lot numbers were dated between 2019 2021 and removed 267 million prefilled saline syringes from the supply chain. This market disruption has caused a cascade of additional shortages of 0.9% sodium chloride 10-mL, 20-mL, and 50-mL preservative-free vials.Dec 6, 2021