Lidocaine shortage could delay dental surgeries: 3 things to know

A COVID-19 lockdown in China is causing a shortage of lidocaine and could lead to delayed dental procedures in the U.S., wral.com reported June 21. 

Three things to know: 

  1. The lockdown in China, which has affected manufacturers, combined with supply chain issues with Pfizer, a big producer of the drug, are causing nationwide shortages, including over-the-counter medications containing lidocaine.
  2. The shortage is causing providers to conserve their supply of the painkiller and cancel surgeries.
  3. Hospital administrators told the news outlet the shortage may not be resolved until next year but they are working to find alternatives.

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