Hospitals and Health Systems Stock up on Pandemic Medications for Potential Second Wave

According to a new survey from Premier Inc., 88% of the company's member hospitals and health systems are "building up safety stocks" of medications to prepare for another coronavirus patient surge.

The survey was conducted from June 11 to 29 and surveyed almost 90 health systems in the United States.

Fifty-one percent said they are building at least a one-month supply, while 25% of members say they are planning to stock up with a two-month supply.

The following drug classes used to treat COVID-19 were cited as part of the drug supply stocks:

• 92% said they will stock sedatives such as midazolam and propofol
• 91% said they will stock neuromuscular blockers such as cisatracurium and vecuronium
• 88% said they will stock controlled substances such as fentanyl and morphine
• 81% said they will stock agents for rapid intubation such as rocuronium and succinylcloline
• 75% said they will stock vasopressors such as norepinephrine and vasopressin
• And 51% said they will stock up on induction agents such as etomidate

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