“FDA Drug Shortages” is a new app by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that identifies current drug shortages, resolved shortages, and discontinuations of drug products. This is the agency’s first app specifically designed to speed public access to information about shortages.

Drugs in short supply can delay or deny needed care for patients, or force health care professionals to rely on alternative drug products. FDA developed the new app as part of efforts outlined in the Strategic Plan for Preventing and Mitigating Drug Shortages. The app can support public health professionals and pharmacy care professionals with up-to-date, quickly accessed information.

App users can search or browse by a drug’s generic name or active ingredient, and browse by therapeutic category. The app can also be used to report a suspected drug shortage or supply issue to the FDA. The app is available for free download via iTunes and the Google Play store.