The Bacitracin/Polymyxin B Shortage: Where Things Stand in 2026

If you rely on Bacitracin/Polymyxin B ophthalmic ointment to treat eye infections, you've likely noticed how difficult it's become to find at your local pharmacy. The shortage that began in 2024 continues into 2026, affecting patients across the United States. Here's everything you need to know about the current situation.

Is Bacitracin/Polymyxin B Still in Shortage?

Yes. As of early 2026, the Bacitracin/Polymyxin B ophthalmic ointment shortage remains ongoing. The primary driver is the temporary discontinuation of bacitracin ophthalmic ointment by Padagis (formerly Perrigo), one of the main manufacturers. Padagis stopped producing their 3.5-gram tubes in July 2024 and has estimated that product will not be available again until October 2026.

The ASHP (American Society of Health-System Pharmacists) and the FDA continue to list bacitracin ophthalmic products on their drug shortage databases. While some pharmacies may still have limited stock from other suppliers, availability is inconsistent and varies significantly by region.

Why Is Bacitracin/Polymyxin B Hard to Find?

Several factors are contributing to the shortage:

• Manufacturer discontinuation: Padagis was a major supplier, and their exit from the market created a supply gap that other manufacturers have struggled to fill.
• Limited generic competition: Bacitracin ophthalmic products have fewer generic manufacturers than many other common medications, leaving less backup when one drops out.
• Complex manufacturing: Bacitracin is a polypeptide antibiotic produced through bacterial fermentation — a more complicated process than chemical synthesis. This makes it harder to quickly ramp up production.
• Supply chain pressures: Global supply chain challenges affecting pharmaceutical raw materials and packaging have compounded the problem.

For a deeper dive into the reasons, read our article on why Bacitracin/Polymyxin B is so hard to find.

How Much Does Bacitracin/Polymyxin B Cost in 2026?

If you can find Bacitracin/Polymyxin B in stock, pricing has varied due to the shortage:

• Cash price (no insurance): $50-$70 for a 3.5-gram tube of ophthalmic ointment
• With a discount coupon: As low as $13-$25 through services like SingleCare or GoodRx
• With insurance: Typically $5-$20 copay, as generic Bacitracin/Polymyxin B is usually on Tier 1 or Tier 2 of most formularies

Prices may be higher than usual at pharmacies with limited stock due to demand. For tips on reducing your costs, see our guide on how to save money on Bacitracin/Polymyxin B.

Are There New Options or Alternatives?

While no new formulations of Bacitracin/Polymyxin B have been introduced, several established alternatives remain available:

• Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment — widely available, effective for many bacterial eye infections
• Tobramycin (Tobrex) — available as drops and ointment, good for gram-negative infections
• Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) — broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone eye drops/ointment
• Neosporin Ophthalmic (Bacitracin/Neomycin/Polymyxin B) — triple antibiotic, though may also be affected by bacitracin supply issues

Your doctor can determine which alternative is most appropriate based on the type and severity of your infection. Read our full comparison in alternatives to Bacitracin/Polymyxin B.

How to Find Bacitracin/Polymyxin B in Stock

Despite the shortage, some pharmacies do have limited quantities available. Here's how to improve your chances:

1. Use Medfinder to check which pharmacies near you currently have stock
2. Call independent pharmacies — they often have more sourcing flexibility than chain stores
3. Ask about compounding pharmacies — some can prepare equivalent ophthalmic formulations
4. Check with your pharmacy regularly — new shipments arrive multiple times per week
5. Have your prescription ready to transfer — if you find it at a different pharmacy, your doctor can send the prescription there

For more detailed strategies, see our guide on how to find Bacitracin/Polymyxin B in stock near you.

When Will the Shortage End?

Padagis has estimated that production will resume by October 2026. However, it's important to note that:

• These dates are estimates and could shift
• Even after production resumes, it may take weeks for supply to reach pharmacy shelves nationwide
• The FDA continues to work with manufacturers to address the shortage

We'll continue to update this article as new information becomes available.

Final Thoughts

The Bacitracin/Polymyxin B shortage has been one of the more persistent ophthalmic drug shortages in recent years. While the situation is improving slowly, patients may continue to face difficulties finding this medication through at least late 2026.

The best approach is to stay proactive: use tools like Medfinder to check pharmacy stock, talk to your doctor about alternatives if needed, and don't wait until your infection gets worse to seek treatment. Your eye health is too important to put on hold.