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1993.01.08 :  Nitrostat Supply 
             
Contact: Susan Cruzan - (301) 443-4177 (Home) -- (301) 926-7081
January 8, 1993

    The Food and Drug Administration has been receiving inquiries
expressing concern about the supply of Parke-Davis & Co.'s
Nitrostat, a nitroglycerin tablet that is dissolved under the
tongue for treatment of acute angina.  Warner-Lambert, which owns
Parke-Davis, has reported that problems with new manufacturing
processes for the drug may have temporarily disrupted distribution
of the drug in certain strengths to some outlets.
    Although spot shortages have occurred, the company is quickly
resupplying pharmacies, and no public health problems are
anticipated.  According to reports the agency has received,
production problems with this product have been resolved, and full
distribution has now resumed.  
    The company has released an additional 300,000 bottles of
Nitrostat in the 0.3 and 0.4 milligram strengths, which should take
care of any backlogs and provide an adequate supply of the drug
throughout the country by Tues., Jan. 12.  Warner-Lambert has
informed doctors and pharmacists of the status of the distribution
and is sending an additional letter to pharmacists today with more
details.  The company is shipping the product by air freight to its
distributors, and has established a mechanism to ensure
availability to all pharmacies.
    In the meantime, patients should obtain the drug in normal
quantities only, to ensure adequate supplies for all.  Pharmacists
should use prudence in filling large requests.  Substitution of
lower-strength tablets may be made in some cases where higher-
strength tablets are unavailable.  Patients with questions about
this matter should consult their physician or pharmacist. 
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