Effects of Valproic Acid Supply Shortage on Pharmacy Operations in a Region of Japan.

Introduction Valproic Acid (VPA) is an essential drug in epilepsy treatment, yet it has faced supply instability in Japan. The extent of the VPA shortage and the associated increase in pharmacists' workload and collaboration with healthcare organizations remains unclear. This study investigates the potential effects of these disruptions on the roles of pharmacists. Methods A questionnaire was administered to pharmacies in Hachioji City, Japan. The survey addressed inventory management, patient complaints, and the potential effects on pharmacy operations during VPA supply instability. A chi-squared test of independence was conducted to compare the most unstable VPA supply period with the current supply situation. Supply stability according to pharmacy characteristics such as the number of prescriptions received per day and primary patient age group was also evaluated. Results Of the 42 pharmacies surveyed, 76.2% reported changes in prescription processing due to VPA supply issues. The main challenges were increased workload in inventory management and patient concerns regarding medication availability and quality. Pharmacies primarily serving clinical prescriptions and pediatric patients were the most affected by the supply instability. Discussion This study highlighted the potential effects of VPA supply instability on pharmacy operations. Pharmacists are expected to provide continuous treatment to patients through effective counseling and medication guidance to alleviate anxiety and concerns related to supply shortages.