A recent study published in JAMA Health Forum analyzed where the United States gets their antibiotics from. The findings are summarized in a CIDRAP article written by Chris Dall, MA.
The researchers found that the vast majority of antibiotic used in the U.S. are imported from other countries, particularly China. A dramatic jump in finished dosage forms (FDFs) antibiotic imports was observed in the U.S. from 1992-2024 (2595.0%), but importation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) “remained relatively stable,” according to the study.
Additional key findings:
- Most FDFs come to the U.S. from India
- China is the United States’ main supplier of APIs
Dall cited the authors’ warning, emphasizing that “The authors of the study say the findings suggest the United States, which already faces persistent drug shortages and is no longer able to domestically produce key antibiotics such as penicillin and doxycycline, is becoming overdependent on other countries for its antibiotic supply and highly vulnerable to supply chain disruptions that could affect public health.”
The study authors said, “Policymakers should consider key FDF and API origin countries when imposing tariffs, revising trade agreements, or implementing manufacturing incentives to avoid supply disruptions. Specific drugs of critical interest should warrant targeted supply chain analysis and tailored strategies.”
