Is Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone Still in Shortage in 2026?

If you've struggled to find Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone (Cipro HC Otic) ear drops at your pharmacy, you're not imagining things. This medication has had availability problems for years — but the picture is finally changing in 2026.

Here's what you need to know about the current supply situation, what it costs, and how to get your prescription filled.

Is There Still a Shortage?

As of early 2026, Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone is not listed as an active shortage on the FDA or ASHP drug shortage databases. However, that doesn't mean it's easy to find at every pharmacy.

The biggest development is this: in December 2025, the FDA approved the first-ever generic version of Cipro HC, manufactured by Cosette Pharmaceuticals. Cosette began commercial shipments immediately and has 180 days of competitive generic therapy (CGT) exclusivity.

This is a major milestone. For over 27 years, Cipro HC was a single-source brand product. If the manufacturer had any production issues, patients had nowhere else to turn. Now, with a generic on the market, supply is expected to gradually stabilize.

That said, it's still early. The generic has only been available for a few months, and not every pharmacy has stocked it yet. Patients in some areas may still face availability challenges, especially at large chain pharmacies that haven't added the new generic to their formularies.

Why Has It Been Hard to Find?

Several factors have contributed to Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone's availability problems:

• Single manufacturer for 27+ years: With only one company making the drug, any production disruption caused nationwide shortages
• Niche medication: Otic drops for swimmer's ear aren't high-volume items, so pharmacies don't always keep them in stock
• Seasonal demand: Swimmer's ear peaks in summer months, creating temporary supply crunches
• High brand-name cost: At $350-$480 per bottle, some pharmacies avoided stocking a product that was hard to sell without insurance coverage

For a deeper explanation, read our article on why Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone is so hard to find.

What Does Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone Cost in 2026?

Pricing is changing fast thanks to the new generic. Here's a snapshot of what patients can expect:

• Brand-name Cipro HC Otic: $350 to $480 per 10 mL bottle (retail price without insurance)
• Generic (Cosette Pharmaceuticals): Estimated $70 to $150 per 10 mL bottle
• With SingleCare coupon: Brand as low as $130
• With GoodRx coupon: Starting around $350 for brand
• With insurance: Copays typically range from $10 to $75, depending on your plan and whether you get the brand or generic

The generic is expected to drive prices down further as it becomes more widely distributed. For detailed savings strategies, read our guide on how to save money on Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone.

Are There New Options in 2026?

Yes — the Cosette generic is the biggest new development. Here's what this means for you:

• Same medication, lower cost: The generic is bioequivalent to brand Cipro HC — same Ciprofloxacin 0.2% and Hydrocortisone 1% in the same 10 mL otic suspension
• More pharmacies stocking it: Generics are easier for pharmacies to order and sell, so availability should improve throughout 2026
• Insurance preference: Many insurance plans will switch their formularies to prefer the generic, which means lower copays for you

If you still can't find it, there are effective alternatives your doctor can prescribe, including Ofloxacin otic ($25-$40), Ciprodex ($55-$65 with coupon), and Cortisporin ($15-$30). See our full breakdown of alternatives to Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone.

How to Find Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone in Stock

Here are the best strategies for locating this medication right now:

1. Search on Medfinder

Medfinder lets you check which pharmacies near you have Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone in stock — no phone calls needed.

2. Ask for Both Brand and Generic

When calling pharmacies, ask about both "Cipro HC Otic" and "generic Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone otic suspension." A pharmacy may carry one but not the other.

3. Try Independent Pharmacies

Smaller, independent pharmacies often have better access to specialty medications and can order from multiple wholesalers.

4. Request a Special Order

Most pharmacies can order the medication and have it within 1-2 business days. Don't be afraid to ask.

For more tips, see our complete guide on how to find Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

The Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone supply situation is the best it's been in years. The December 2025 generic launch is a turning point — one that should bring more supply, lower prices, and better pharmacy availability throughout 2026.

If you're currently looking for this medication, start with Medfinder to check local stock. And if you can't find it, talk to your doctor about effective alternatives. Swimmer's ear is treatable, and you have options.