Pfizer suspending operations at U.S. injectables plant as hurricane approaches

Weather is again taking a toll on the U.S. supply of injected drugs as Pfizer is suspending production at a key sterile injectables plant in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, ahead of Hurricane Florence. The New York drugmaker says it is monitoring the situation and plans to suspend production on Thursday at two plants in North Carolina ahead of landfall by the hurricane. A spokesman said the company has taken steps to avoid interruptions in drug supplies but provided no specifics. “Only essential emergency, utility, and monitoring personnel will be onsite during the storm. Our primary concern is the safety of our colleagues, and our ability to ensure uninterrupted supply of medicines to our patients,” an emailed statement said. “Pfizer has contingency plans in place to ensure the continuity of supply, and mitigate interruptions during natural disasters.” The hurricane has the potential to be the worst in 60 years, with lingering rains and flooding as well as high winds. Residents around Rocky Mount have been told to be prepared to evacuate.

Source : www.fiercepharma.com

Published on: September 12, 2018