Is Bacitracin still in shortage in 2026? Get the latest update on availability, costs, alternatives, and when supply is expected to return.
If you've been unable to find Bacitracin at your pharmacy recently, you're dealing with the effects of an ongoing drug shortage that has impacted patients across the country. In this article, we'll give you the latest update on the Bacitracin shortage, explain what's causing it, and share practical steps you can take.
As of early 2026, yes — Bacitracin is still in shortage, specifically the prescription ophthalmic ointment (the eye form).
Here's the current situation:
The shortage comes down to a few key factors:
Padagis US was the primary supplier of Bacitracin ophthalmic ointment in the United States. When they discontinued production — even temporarily — it created a gap that no other manufacturer has been able to fill. This is a common pattern in drug shortages: when a market has only one or two manufacturers, any disruption has an outsized impact.
Unlike common oral medications that have dozens of generic manufacturers, Bacitracin ophthalmic ointment is made by very few companies. The economics of sterile ophthalmic manufacturing are challenging, which discourages new competitors from entering the market.
Raw material sourcing, quality control requirements, and distribution logistics all play a role. Sterile ophthalmic products face particularly strict manufacturing standards, making it harder to quickly ramp up production.
For a deeper dive into the causes, read our article on why Bacitracin is so hard to find in 2026.
Costs vary depending on which form you need:
If you have insurance, the ophthalmic form is typically covered as a Tier 1 generic with a low copay. The OTC form is generally not covered by insurance since it doesn't require a prescription. For more on pricing, see our guide to saving money on Bacitracin.
While no new Bacitracin products have entered the market, you have several alternatives:
For a full comparison, read alternatives to Bacitracin.
Even during a shortage, some pharmacies still have Bacitracin available. Here's how to find it:
For more detailed strategies, check out how to find Bacitracin in stock near you.
If you need a prescription for Bacitracin ophthalmic ointment or an alternative, many doctors now offer telehealth appointments. A provider can evaluate your symptoms via video call and send a prescription to the pharmacy of your choice. This is especially helpful when you've already found a pharmacy with stock and just need a prescription directed there. Learn more about finding a prescriber near you.
The Bacitracin shortage — particularly for the ophthalmic form — is expected to continue through much of 2026, with resupply estimated around October. The OTC topical form is more widely available but can be harder to find in some areas.
The best thing you can do is stay informed, use tools like Medfinder to check stock, and talk to your doctor about alternatives if you can't find what you need. This shortage will end, but in the meantime, you have real options.
Want to understand what Bacitracin does and how it works? Read our articles on Bacitracin uses and dosage and how Bacitracin works.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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