More MS news articles for November 2002

FDA Reports Shortage of Generic Baclofen

http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/444600

Nov 13, 2002
Reuters Health
WASHINGTON

Generic drugmakers Ivax Pharmaceuticals Inc., Upsher-Smith Laboratories Inc., and Watson Pharmaceuticals Inc. have reported a shortage of the spasticity management drug baclofen due to higher than anticipated demand, according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

In a posting on the agency's Web site, the FDA said the three firms have reported that demand has outpaced the available supplies. But the shortage is expected to end over the next several months as supplies are increased.

"All three firms are reporting they are working to meet demand," the notice said.

Baclofen is the generic equivalent of Swiss drugmaker Novartis' Lioresal. The drug is indicated for the management of spasticity due to a spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis.