Chlorothiazide Oral Suspension Shortage

• • Valeant could not provide a reason for the shortage.[1]

• • Diuril oral suspension, Valeant, 250 mg / 5 mL 237 mL bottle, NDC 65649-0311-12

Estimated Resupply Dates

• • Valeant has Diuril oral suspension available.[1]

Implications for Patient Care

• • Chlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic frequently used in pediatric patients to manage hypertension or for diuresis.[2]

Safety

• • Extemporaneously compounded chlorothiazide suspension may be a potential alternative during this shortage. Ensure appropriate compounding technique.

Alternative Agents & Management

• • Two publications are available outlining methods for compounding chlorothiazide 50 mg/mL oral suspension.[3,4]

References

• 1. Valeant. Customer Service (personal communications). May 8, June 8, August 10, September 8, October 29, November 16 and 24, December 22, 2015; January 14, February 5, September 13, October 17, December 7, 2016; and January 4, 2017.
  2. McEvoy GK, Snow EK, Kester L, Litvak K, Miller J, Welsh OH, eds. AHFS DI (Lexi-Comp Online). Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists; 2015.
  3. Allen et al. Chlorothiazide 50 mg/mL oral suspension. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Compounding. 2014;18(4):326.
  4. Chlorothiazide. In: Nahata MC, Pai VB, eds. Pediatric Drug Formulations, 6th edition. Cincinnati, OH: Harvey Whitney Books Company; 2011.