Get the latest Aquasol E shortage update for 2026. Learn the current status, why the vitamin E drops shortage continues, cost changes, and how to find it.
If you depend on Aquasol E — the liquid vitamin E (d-alpha tocopherol) drops used for vitamin E deficiency — you've likely been dealing with supply problems for a while now. The shortage of vitamin E aqueous oral solutions isn't new, but the situation continues to affect patients in 2026.
This article gives you the latest update on the Aquasol E shortage, explains what's happening behind the scenes, and lays out your best options for getting the vitamin E you need.
Yes. As of early 2026, Aquasol E oral solution remains difficult to find. The product has been listed on the ASHP (American Society of Health-System Pharmacists) drug shortage list, and the situation has not meaningfully improved.
Here's the core problem: multiple manufacturers have exited the market. Hospira, the original maker of Aquasol E, discontinued the product. Lannett and Geritrex — two companies that made generic vitamin E aqueous oral solutions — also stopped production. With no major manufacturer stepping in to fill the gap, supply remains extremely limited.
While vitamin E capsules and softgels are widely available over the counter, the specific liquid drops/aqueous oral solution form is what's in shortage. This matters most for patients who need the water-soluble form for medical reasons.
The ongoing shortage comes down to several factors that have compounded over time:
Three manufacturers stopping production is the primary driver. The market for liquid vitamin E drops is small — most people get enough vitamin E from their diet — so there's little financial incentive for companies to restart production.
Global vitamin E raw material markets have been volatile. In late 2024, major suppliers including BASF declared force majeure due to production disruptions, leading to severe shortages that rippled through the entire vitamin E supply chain. While raw material availability has improved somewhat in 2026, prices remain elevated.
No new manufacturer has publicly announced plans to produce vitamin E aqueous oral solution. The regulatory and manufacturing investment required to produce pharmaceutical-grade liquid supplements makes it a challenging market to enter for small returns.
If you can find Aquasol E or an equivalent liquid vitamin E product, expect to pay more than you might think for a vitamin supplement:
Most insurance plans do not cover OTC vitamin E supplements. However, some plans may cover prescription vitamin E for documented deficiency. HSA and FSA funds can sometimes be used with a Letter of Medical Necessity from your doctor.
For detailed savings strategies, check out our guide on how to save money on Aquasol E in 2026.
While no new manufacturer has released a direct Aquasol E equivalent, patients do have some options that weren't as well-known in previous years:
Aqua-E is a water-soluble vitamin E liquid containing d-alpha tocopherol with mixed tocopherols and tocotrienols. It's the closest commercial alternative to Aquasol E and is available from some specialty pharmacies and online retailers without a prescription.
More compounding pharmacies are now experienced in preparing vitamin E aqueous solutions. If you need a specific concentration or formulation, this route has become more accessible. Your doctor can write a compounding prescription.
For patients who can absorb fat-soluble vitamins normally, the generic vitamin E capsule market remains robust. Multiple manufacturers produce affordable capsules in strengths from 200 to 1000 IU.
For a complete comparison of alternatives, read: Alternatives to Aquasol E If You Can't Fill Your Prescription.
If you specifically need Aquasol E or a liquid vitamin E product, here's your action plan:
Read our detailed guide: How to Find Aquasol E in Stock Near You (Tools + Tips).
The Aquasol E shortage in 2026 is a continuation of a long-running supply problem caused by manufacturer discontinuations and global raw material challenges. While there's no quick fix on the horizon, patients have more awareness and more tools to navigate the situation than ever before.
Stay informed, use resources like Medfinder, and work closely with your doctor to ensure you're getting the vitamin E your body needs — even when Aquasol E itself is hard to find.
Related articles:
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
Try Medfinder Concierge FreeMedfinder's mission is to ensure every patient gets access to the medications they need. We believe this begins with trustworthy information. Our core values guide everything we do, including the standards that shape the accuracy, transparency, and quality of our content. We’re committed to delivering information that’s evidence-based, regularly updated, and easy to understand. For more details on our editorial process, see here.
%2C%20Color%3DOriginal.png)
