There’s a critical drug shortage unfolding behind the scenes in the US - and it could impact care in emergency rooms. Heparin is a life-saving blood thinner used in heart attacks, surgeries, dialysis, and more. But supply in the US is now under serious strain, with hospitals reportedly operating on limited stock. The issue traces back to its source. Heparin is derived from pig intestines, and around 80% of the global supply chain relies on China. An outbreak of African Swine Fever in 2018 wiped out roughly 150 million pigs, disrupting production long-term. More recently, a key manufacturer halted output, and shortages are now expected to continue for years. At the same time, high tariffs on Chinese pharmaceuticals and a lack of domestic production have made it harder to close the gap. When supply previously dropped to similar levels, medication errors rose sharply as hospitals were forced to ration. Health systems are now under pressure - and new legislation aimed at securing supply chains is being considered. (Original report by .rickpescatore) #hosted #pubity #viral