The Cardizem XR Shortage in 2026: What's Really Going On

If you've been struggling to fill your Cardizem XR prescription, you're not imagining things. Diltiazem extended-release products — including Cardizem XR and its generic equivalents — have experienced supply disruptions that have left patients scrambling to find their medication.

Here's the latest on the shortage, what it means for you, and how to make sure you don't go without your blood pressure medication.

Is Cardizem XR Still in Shortage?

As of early 2026, certain Diltiazem extended-release products continue to face intermittent availability issues. The situation varies by:

• Formulation: Some versions (like specific generic Diltiazem ER capsules) are harder to find than others
• Strength: Certain doses — particularly 120 mg and 360 mg — have been more affected
• Region: Availability can differ significantly between cities and even between pharmacies in the same area

The brand-name Cardizem XR itself has had limited production in recent years, with generic alternatives making up the vast majority of prescriptions filled. If your pharmacy specifically stocks brand Cardizem XR, availability may be more limited than if you accept a generic substitution.

Why Has Cardizem XR Been Hard to Find?

The Diltiazem ER shortage has been driven by several overlapping factors:

Manufacturing Disruptions

Several generic manufacturers of Diltiazem ER have experienced production issues, including raw material shortages and quality control problems. When one manufacturer goes offline, the remaining companies can't always ramp up production fast enough to cover the gap.

Formulation Complexity

Diltiazem comes in more extended-release formulations than almost any other blood pressure medication — Cardizem XR, Cardizem CD, Cardizem LA, Tiazac, Cartia XT, Taztia XT, and more. Each one has a different release mechanism, and they cannot be freely substituted for one another. This fragments the supply and makes shortages of specific products more likely.

Market Economics

Generic Diltiazem ER is inexpensive, which means profit margins are thin. When margins are low, manufacturers have less financial incentive to invest in additional production capacity or stockpile inventory. This makes the supply chain more fragile.

For a deeper look at these issues, read Why Is Cardizem XR So Hard to Find?

How Much Does Cardizem XR Cost in 2026?

Cost depends on whether you're getting brand-name or generic, and whether you have insurance:

• Brand Cardizem XR: $80–$350+ for a 30-day supply without insurance
• Generic Diltiazem ER: $10–$60 cash price for a 30-day supply
• With discount cards: Generic Diltiazem ER can be as low as $4–$15 using GoodRx, SingleCare, or similar programs
• With insurance: Most plans cover generic Diltiazem ER as a Tier 1 or Tier 2 drug, with copays typically $0–$15

For detailed savings strategies, see How to Save Money on Cardizem XR.

Are There New Options in 2026?

While no new Diltiazem formulations have launched recently, patients do have more tools than ever to manage availability:

• Real-time stock checking: Tools like Medfinder let you see which pharmacies near you have Diltiazem ER in stock right now
• Expanded telehealth access: If you need a prescription adjustment or formulation switch, many cardiologists and primary care doctors now offer telehealth appointments that can get you a new prescription quickly. See How to Find a Doctor Who Can Prescribe Cardizem XR.
• More discount programs: Competition among prescription discount cards has driven prices lower than ever for generic Diltiazem ER

How to Find Cardizem XR in Stock Right Now

Here's a step-by-step action plan:

1. Search on Medfinder: Go to medfinder.com and search for your specific medication and dose
2. Call independent pharmacies: They often have access to different wholesalers than chain pharmacies
3. Ask about alternative formulations: Your doctor may be able to switch you to Cartia XT, Tiazac, or another Diltiazem ER product that's in stock
4. Consider mail-order: Mail-order pharmacies and online pharmacies like Cost Plus Drugs or Amazon Pharmacy may have inventory when local stores don't
5. Request a 90-day supply: When you do find it, fill the maximum amount allowed to create a buffer

For more detailed tips, read How to Find Cardizem XR in Stock Near You.

Final Thoughts

The Cardizem XR shortage has been an ongoing challenge, but it's manageable with the right approach. Stay proactive — check availability regularly, communicate with your doctor about backup plans, and don't wait until you're out of pills to start looking.

Your blood pressure medication is too important to leave to chance. Use the tools available to you, and remember that your doctor and pharmacist are your best allies in navigating shortages.

For a complete guide to your options if you can't find it, see Alternatives to Cardizem XR.