This surge in prescription fills for hydroxychloroquine/chloroquine followed/corresponded with the WHO declaration of a global pandemic, the US declaration of a national emergency, a single-group non-randomized study, and President Trump’s support of the drug. A reduction in refills after this surge could indicate a shortage of available medication for individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis.. Drug shortages of hydroxychloroquine had been reported to the USFDA beginning March 31, 2020.