The United States health care system is under pressure as escalating drug shortages grip the nation. However, the reasons behind over half of these shortages are shrouded in mystery. In the first quarter of 2023, there were 309 active national drug shortages, the highest they have been since 2014, according to estimates by the University of Utah Drug Information Service. Each of these drug shortages affects at least half a million consumers on average, the U.S. Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation estimates, and many shortages have resulted in the rationing of...…The United States health care system is under pressure as escalating drug shortages grip the nation. However, the reasons behind over half of these shortages are shrouded in mystery. In the first quarter of 2023, there were 309 active national drug shortages, the highest they have been since 2014, according to estimates by the University of Utah Drug Information Service. Each of these drug shortages affects at least half a million consumers on average, the U.S. Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation estimates, and many shortages have resulted in the rationing of...WW…