Aminocaproic Acid in 2026: What's the Current Situation?

If you take Aminocaproic Acid — or your doctor just prescribed it — you've probably already discovered that finding it isn't easy. Supply issues have been affecting this medication for years, and patients are understandably frustrated. In this shortage update, we'll cover the current state of Aminocaproic Acid availability, what's driving the problem, how much it costs, and what you can do right now.

Is Aminocaproic Acid Still in Shortage?

The short answer: availability remains inconsistent in 2026. Here's what's happening with each formulation:

• Oral tablets (500 mg): Available from generic manufacturers but not consistently stocked at all pharmacies. You may need to call around or use a tool like Medfinder to locate a pharmacy with stock.
• Oral tablets (1000 mg): Limited availability. Akorn discontinued this formulation, and not all generic makers produce this strength. Patients may need to take two 500 mg tablets instead.
• Oral solution (250 mg/mL): Generally available but not stocked at every pharmacy.
• Injectable (IV) formulation: Has experienced the most significant shortages. Pfizer, a major supplier, has had manufacturing delays tracked by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). Hospitals may face intermittent availability.

The bottom line: Aminocaproic Acid is not officially listed as "resolved" across all formulations. Patients should plan ahead and not assume their pharmacy will have it when they need a refill.

Why Is Aminocaproic Acid Hard to Find?

Several factors are driving the supply issues:

Fewer Manufacturers

With Akorn exiting the market and limited manufacturers producing the oral tablets, the supply chain is thin. When you only have a handful of suppliers making a product, any disruption — a raw material delay, an equipment breakdown, a quality issue — can cause a shortage that affects patients nationwide.

Manufacturing Delays

Pfizer's injectable formulation has been subject to manufacturing delays. These aren't quick fixes — they can take months to resolve, and during that time, hospitals and pharmacies may struggle to source the drug.

Low Commercial Interest

Aminocaproic Acid is a niche medication. It doesn't generate the revenue of a blockbuster drug, which means fewer companies are motivated to invest in production lines for it. This creates a fragile supply chain that's vulnerable to disruption.

For a deeper dive, read our article on why Aminocaproic Acid is so hard to find.

How Much Does Aminocaproic Acid Cost in 2026?

Cost varies significantly depending on whether you have insurance and whether you use a discount card:

• Retail price (no insurance): Approximately $290-$650 for oral tablets, depending on the quantity and strength.
• With a GoodRx coupon: As low as $32-$36 for the most common prescription.
• With a SingleCare card: Comparable savings, starting around $35-$45.
• IV formulation: Around $124+ for 500 mL from hospital or specialty pharmacies.

If cost is a barrier, see our full guide on how to save money on Aminocaproic Acid.

Are There New Options or Alternatives?

While no new formulations of Aminocaproic Acid have been introduced recently, patients who can't find it do have alternatives:

• Tranexamic Acid (Lysteda, Cyklokapron): The most direct substitute — works through the same mechanism, is 10 times more potent, and is generally easier to find at pharmacies.
• Desmopressin (DDAVP): An option for patients with mild hemophilia A or von Willebrand disease.
• Different formulation: If the tablet isn't available, ask about the oral solution or vice versa.

Read our detailed comparison in alternatives to Aminocaproic Acid.

How to Find Aminocaproic Acid in Stock Right Now

Here are the most effective strategies for locating Aminocaproic Acid today:

1. Use Medfinder to search for pharmacies near you with current stock.
2. Try independent pharmacies — they often have more ordering flexibility than chains.
3. Call your pharmacy 3-5 days before you need a refill to give them time to order.
4. Ask your doctor about switching formulations if your usual one is unavailable.
5. Consider specialty pharmacies that serve hematology or surgical patients.

For a complete walkthrough, see our guide on how to find Aminocaproic Acid in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

The Aminocaproic Acid shortage situation in 2026 is frustrating but manageable with the right approach. Availability is inconsistent rather than completely unavailable — which means with some planning and the right tools, most patients can find what they need.

Stay proactive: refill early, use Medfinder to check inventory, talk to your doctor about backup plans, and explore discount programs to manage cost. Knowledge is your best tool in navigating this shortage.

If you're a healthcare provider looking for clinical guidance on this shortage, see our provider-focused shortage update.