This post was written by Erin Janssen.

On October 31, 2011, President Obama signed an Executive Order directing the FDA to take action to help further prevent and reduce prescription drug shortages, protect consumers, and prevent price gouging. The President’s order directs FDA to broaden reporting of potential shortages of certain prescription drugs and to further expedite regulatory reviews that can help prevent or respond to shortages. Under this policy, FDA also will work with the Department of Justice, which will examine whether potential shortages have led to illegal price gouging or stockpiling of life-saving medications. The FDA has compiled information about its actions to address drug shortages.