When Crinone Isn't Available, You Still Have Options

If your pharmacy told you Crinone is out of stock — or if the cost is simply too high — you're probably wondering: what else can I take? The answer depends on why you're using Crinone and what your doctor recommends, but there are several solid Progesterone alternatives available in 2026.

Let's walk through what Crinone does, how it works, and the alternatives your doctor might consider.

What Is Crinone?

Crinone is a brand-name vaginal Progesterone gel that delivers micronized Progesterone directly to your uterine lining using a pre-filled applicator. It's manufactured by Merck Serono and comes in two strengths:

• Crinone 4% (45 mg per applicator) — used for secondary amenorrhea
• Crinone 8% (90 mg per applicator) — used for fertility treatment (ART/IVF) support

Crinone is most commonly prescribed as part of IVF and other assisted reproductive technology protocols to provide luteal phase support — meaning it helps your uterine lining stay thick and healthy so a fertilized embryo can implant and grow. For more details, read our guide on what Crinone is and how to use it.

How Does Crinone Work?

Progesterone is a hormone your body naturally produces after ovulation. It transforms your uterine lining from a "proliferative" state (building up) to a "secretory" state (ready to receive an embryo). In fertility treatments, your body may not produce enough Progesterone on its own, so supplementation is needed.

Crinone's bioadhesive gel technology is designed to stick to the vaginal walls, allowing for steady, sustained release of Progesterone directly where it's needed. This local delivery means lower doses can be effective compared to oral or injectable forms. Learn more about how Crinone works.

Progesterone Alternatives to Crinone

If you can't get Crinone — whether due to availability, cost, or side effects — here are the most commonly prescribed alternatives. Always talk to your doctor before switching medications.

1. Endometrin (Progesterone Vaginal Inserts)

Endometrin is probably the most direct alternative to Crinone. It's an FDA-approved vaginal Progesterone insert (100 mg tablets) used for luteal phase support in ART/IVF treatment.

How it's used: Inserted vaginally 2-3 times per day using an applicator.

Pros:

• FDA-approved for the same fertility indication as Crinone 8%
• No gel residue buildup (a common Crinone complaint)
• Widely available at specialty pharmacies

Cons:

• More frequent dosing (2-3 times daily vs. once daily for Crinone)
• Can be messier than the gel formulation
• Cost is similar — roughly $400-$700 for a month's supply at retail

2. Prometrium (Oral Micronized Progesterone)

Prometrium is an oral Progesterone capsule available in 100 mg and 200 mg strengths. It's FDA-approved for secondary amenorrhea and prevention of endometrial hyperplasia — but many fertility doctors prescribe it vaginally (off-label) as a lower-cost alternative to Crinone.

How it's used: Taken orally for its approved indications, or inserted vaginally (off-label) for fertility support, typically 200 mg 2-3 times daily.

Pros:

• Much more affordable — generic Progesterone capsules start around $12-$30 with a coupon
• Widely available at most pharmacies
• Can be used orally or vaginally

Cons:

• Vaginal use is off-label (though well-studied and commonly done)
• Oral use causes more drowsiness and dizziness than vaginal administration
• Contains peanut oil — not suitable for patients with peanut allergies

3. Progesterone in Oil (PIO) Injections

Progesterone in Oil is an intramuscular injection (typically 50 mg/mL) that has been a gold standard for luteal phase support in IVF for decades.

How it's used: Injected into the muscle (usually the upper outer buttock) once daily. Your fertility clinic will teach you or a partner how to administer the injection.

Pros:

• Highly effective — some studies suggest slightly higher pregnancy rates compared to vaginal Progesterone
• Relatively affordable — around $20-$50 per vial with a coupon
• Well-established track record in fertility medicine

Cons:

• Painful daily injections that can cause soreness, bruising, and knots at injection sites
• Requires needles and syringes
• Not ideal for patients who are needle-phobic

4. Compounded Progesterone Suppositories

Compounded Progesterone suppositories are custom-made at compounding pharmacies and are commonly prescribed when commercial products are unavailable or too expensive.

How it's used: Inserted vaginally (or sometimes rectally) 1-3 times daily, depending on the dose prescribed.

Pros:

• Can be customized to any dose
• Often more affordable than brand-name products
• Available when commercial products are out of stock

Cons:

• Not FDA-approved — quality and consistency vary between compounding pharmacies
• May not be covered by insurance
• Can be messy

How to Choose the Right Alternative

The best alternative for you depends on several factors:

• Your specific treatment protocol: Your fertility doctor has specific reasons for choosing a particular form of Progesterone. Don't switch without discussing it first.
• Your comfort level: If you hate injections, PIO probably isn't right for you. If gel residue bothers you, Endometrin might be better.
• Cost and insurance: Generic Prometrium is by far the most affordable option. If cost is a major concern, this is worth discussing with your doctor. See our guide on saving money on Crinone and Progesterone.
• Availability: Use Medfinder to check what's in stock near you before asking for a switch.

Final Thoughts

Not being able to fill your Crinone prescription is stressful — especially during fertility treatment when timing matters. But you do have alternatives, and all of them are well-established in fertility medicine. Talk to your doctor about which option makes the most sense for your situation.

If you want to keep trying to find Crinone, use Medfinder to search pharmacies near you. And for the latest on availability, read our Crinone shortage update for 2026.