Prescription drug recalls and shortages

At Sharp Health Plan, we believe our members deserve a trusted health care partner and advocate. So, when we are notified of a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Class I or Class II drug recall, we promptly notify affected members and their prescribing doctors.

The FDA uses the following definitions for prescription drug recalls.

Class I recall

A situation in which there is a reasonable probability that use of, or exposure to, a product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.

Class II recall

A situation in which the use of or exposure to a product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.

Sharp Health Plan promptly identifies and notifies affected members and their prescribing physicians when we are notified of a Class I or Class II drug recall. Notification is sent to members who have received their medication using the Sharp Health Plan outpatient pharmacy benefit.

Visit FDA.gov to learn about recent drug recalls, market withdrawals and safety alerts.

Understanding drug shortages

What is a drug shortage?

A drug shortage is a period when the demand for a drug is more than its supply. Shortages can happen for many reasons, and they can occur and resolve quickly. If there is a shortage of your medication, you may not be able to get it right away. You can learn more about shortages by visiting the FDA’s FAQ.

How can I find more information about a drug shortage that affects my medication?

The FDA and your medication’s manufacturer monitor shortages and can provide up-to-date information, which can change daily. Sharp Health Plan does not notify members or providers about drug shortages.

You can search for your medication and its status using the FDA’s Drug Shortage Database.