Budesonide Shortage in 2026: What's Going On?

If you rely on Budesonide for Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, asthma, or another inflammatory condition, you've probably felt the impact of ongoing supply issues. The Budesonide shortage has frustrated patients and pharmacists alike — and heading into 2026, many people are still asking: Is Budesonide available yet?

Here's the latest on what's happening with Budesonide supply, what it costs, and what you can do right now.

Is Budesonide Still in Shortage?

The short answer: it depends on the formulation.

Budesonide comes in many forms, and not all of them are equally affected:

• Oral delayed-release capsules (generic Entocort EC, 3 mg): These have been the most consistently affected by shortages since 2023. Some generic manufacturers have had production slowdowns, and supply remains uneven across the country.
• Pulmicort Respules (nebulization suspension): Pediatric asthma patients have seen intermittent shortages of this formulation, particularly during respiratory illness seasons (fall and winter).
• Pulmicort Flexhaler (inhaled powder): Generally more available than Respules, but can be hard to find at some pharmacies.
• Uceris (extended-release tablets, 9 mg): As a brand-name product with a separate supply chain, Uceris has been less affected but is significantly more expensive.
• Rhinocort nasal spray: Available over the counter and generally not in shortage.
• Tarpeyo (4 mg delayed-release): Specialty product for IgA nephropathy — typically available through specialty pharmacies.

For the most up-to-date picture of what's available near you, use Medfinder to check real-time pharmacy stock.

Why Has Budesonide Been Hard to Find?

Several factors have combined to create the Budesonide shortage:

• Fewer generic manufacturers: Consolidation in the generic drug industry means fewer companies are making Budesonide capsules. When one manufacturer has issues, there's less backup.
• Manufacturing complexity: Budesonide's delayed-release and extended-release formulations require specialized manufacturing processes that are harder to scale quickly.
• Growing demand: More patients are being prescribed Budesonide for conditions like microscopic colitis, eosinophilic esophagitis, and IgA nephropathy — expanding the patient base beyond traditional Crohn's and UC use.
• Supply chain fragility: Raw material sourcing, quality control inspections, and distribution bottlenecks have all played a role.

For the full breakdown, read our article on why Budesonide is so hard to find in 2026.

What Does Budesonide Cost in 2026?

Cost varies dramatically depending on the formulation and whether you have insurance:

• Generic oral capsules (3 mg, 30 count): $50-$150 cash price at most pharmacies
• Uceris (9 mg tablets, brand): $1,200-$1,800 without insurance
• Pulmicort Flexhaler (inhaler): $250-$350 cash price
• Pulmicort Respules (generic nebulization): $30-$100 depending on dose and quantity
• Rhinocort nasal spray (OTC): $12-$20 at most retailers
• Tarpeyo: $3,000+ per month

Discount cards from GoodRx, SingleCare, and other services can reduce cash prices significantly. For more money-saving tips, visit our guide on how to save money on Budesonide.

Are There New Options for Budesonide Patients?

A few developments may help patients in 2026:

• Additional generic manufacturers: The FDA has been working to approve new generic versions of Budesonide to increase competition and supply.
• Compounding pharmacies: For conditions like eosinophilic esophagitis, compounding pharmacies can prepare oral viscous Budesonide — an option that may be available even when commercial products are not.
• Therapeutic alternatives: If Budesonide isn't available, your doctor may consider switching to alternatives like Prednisone, Mesalamine, Fluticasone, or Beclomethasone depending on your condition. See our alternatives guide for details.

How to Find Budesonide in Stock Right Now

Here are actionable steps you can take today:

1. Search on Medfinder — check which pharmacies near you have Budesonide available right now.
2. Call independent pharmacies — they often have different supply chains and may have stock when chains don't.
3. Request refills early — give your pharmacy 7-10 days to source the medication.
4. Ask about mail-order — mail-order pharmacies sometimes have better access to medications in short supply.
5. Talk to your doctor — if you truly can't find Budesonide, your doctor can help you transition to an alternative or contact the manufacturer directly.

For more tips, read our full guide on how to find Budesonide in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

The Budesonide shortage has been ongoing, and while supply is improving, it's not yet back to normal for all formulations. Stay proactive — use tools like Medfinder, plan your refills ahead, and keep your doctor in the loop. If you're a healthcare provider looking for clinical guidance, check out our provider shortage update.

You're not powerless in this situation. With the right approach, you can get the Budesonide you need.