Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — An LB J Tropical Medical Center statement says the national shortage of Amoxicillin is not alarming at this stage. However this shortage does not apply to Amoxicillin for adults.

This is outlined in a press statement issued by the hospital in response to Samoa News questions regarding concerns raised by local physicians of the Amoxicillin shortage.

“There's a National Shortage of Amoxicillin in the U.S especially, during the triple threat viral outbreak of Covid-19, RSV, and Influenza.

“Although Amoxicillin is not used to treat viral infections, it is commonly used when secondary bacterial infections are present.

“Pediatric patients across the nation, including American Samoa, have been seen for both viral and bacterial infections during the same period.

Since Amoxicillin is the most used antibiotic to treat upper respiratory and ear infections, LBJ pharmacy prepared for this near shortage by ordering alternative antibiotics that could be used for the same type of infections.”

Samoa News reported on Monday of several children’s medications including amoxicillin are not available at the hospital’s pharmacy.

This was confirmed to Samoa News by several doctors, who for fear of repercussions opted to remain anonymous.

“There are alternate medications available but doctors prefer amoxicillin,” said one senior physician. “We were told the medication would be restocked very soon.”

According to the statement issued by LBJ yesterday the pharmacy vigilantly ensures sufficient stock levels of antibiotic suspensions for the pediatric population of American Samoa.

“LBJ has never run out of Amoxicillin for adults, this shortage is only affecting the oral suspension.

“The pharmacists continue to actively research alternative options, and if needed, they explore the possibility of “compounding” Amoxicillin locally.

“Furthermore, LBJ's U.S. licensed clinical pharmacists, vigorously monitor the usage of antibiotics and provide advice of ‘judicious usage’ especially, the dispensation during this nation-wide crisis.

“As part of the medical team, the pharmacists consult on infectious treatment courses daily and work closely with physicians for proper treatment choices during this near shortage.”

Furthermore the LBJ pharmacy will continue to exhaust all resources to ensure the continued procurement of antibiotics as needed.

“However, for evidence-based and safe best practices, LBJ pharmacy kindly reminds the community of the importance of finishing all antibiotic courses, and it is never recommended to self-treat with leftover antibiotics or antibiotics from family members.

“These practices could only increase the resistance and make it more difficult for our physicians to treat infections.

“As noted, antibiotic resistance has been a challenge worldwide and especially, here in American Samoa for the past decade.

“Please remain patient as the pharmacists works alongside the medical team to ensure LBJ pharmacy continues to stock the necessary medication needed on-island.”