Shortage of hydromorphone hydrochloride Carpuject syringes

The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists reports a shortage of hydromorphone hydrochloride Carpuject syringes. This shortage of disposable syringe cartridges of this drug is almost certainly related to the recently resolved shortage of hydromorphone hydrochloride in ampules. Hydromorphone is a semi-synthetic form of morphine which is not as addictive, but is a three- to four-fold better pain reliever. It is sometimes used in a hospital setting for relief of the most severe coughing. More typically it is used to control pain following surgery.