Drug Shortages, Labor Issues Becoming An Issue For Pharmacies In Oklahoma

Shortages are hitting many pharmacies around the country and here in Oklahoma, some have reduced their hours due to labor issues.

There have been ongoing drug shortages for months now which were made worse by the upcoming cold and flu season as well as the increasing demand for the latest COVID-19 vaccine.

Some of it is because of delays from drugmakers, but some has been an overall national shortage of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians.

One local pharmacist told News 9 that despite the issues, his doors are open.

Greg Clyde of Clyde Pharmacy says he's seen more patients come to him after being unable to fill their prescriptions elsewhere.

This week alone, he says he got calls from doctors asking if he is able to fill prescriptions other pharmacies could not.

He said some parts of this issue have been happening now for the past couple of years.

"It really is case by case. We've seen since COVID-19 manufacturers having a hard time keeping up with some of the demand for respiratory medications," Clyde said. "So, from time to time we'll those pockets where demand is outstripping supply."