The Claravis Shortage in 2026: What's Going On?

If you've been told your pharmacy can't fill your Claravis prescription, you're not imagining things. Isotretinoin — the powerful acne medication sold under brand names like Claravis, Amnesteem, Myorisan, and Zenatane — has faced ongoing supply challenges that have left patients scrambling to find their medication.

In this article, we'll give you an honest update on the Claravis shortage situation in 2026, explain what's driving the problem, and share practical steps to get your prescription filled.

Is Claravis Still in Shortage?

As of early 2026, certain strengths of generic Isotretinoin continue to experience intermittent supply disruptions. The situation varies by manufacturer, dosage strength, and region. Some patients report no issues at all, while others — especially those on higher doses like 40 mg — have faced repeated stockouts at their pharmacy.

The FDA Drug Shortage Database has listed Isotretinoin products intermittently since 2022. While not always classified as a formal "shortage," the practical reality for many patients is that their specific brand and strength isn't available when they need it.

Why Is Claravis Hard to Find?

Several factors are contributing to Claravis availability issues in 2026:

Manufacturing and Supply Chain Issues

Generic Isotretinoin is produced by a handful of manufacturers — Teva (Claravis), Mylan/Viatris (Amnesteem), Amneal (Myorisan), and Zydus (Zenatane). When any one of these manufacturers experiences production delays — whether from raw material sourcing, quality control issues, or FDA inspections — it can ripple across the entire market.

iPLEDGE Program Complexity

The iPLEDGE REMS program adds a layer of complexity to Isotretinoin dispensing that doesn't exist for most other medications. The system requires prescribers, pharmacies, and patients to all be registered and compliant before a single capsule can be dispensed. The 2021 iPLEDGE platform overhaul caused widespread problems, and while the system has stabilized, it still creates friction that can compound supply issues.

For a deeper explanation, see our article on why Claravis is so hard to find.

Increasing Demand

Dermatologists are prescribing Isotretinoin more frequently, including for moderate acne cases that haven't responded to other treatments. More patients competing for limited supply means more frequent stockouts.

Pharmacy Stocking Decisions

Because of iPLEDGE requirements and the relatively narrow patient population, not every pharmacy stocks Isotretinoin. Chain pharmacies may only carry it at select locations, and some may not reorder promptly after running out.

How Much Does Claravis Cost in 2026?

The cost of Claravis and other generic Isotretinoin depends on your dose, pharmacy, and insurance coverage:

• Without insurance (cash price): $150–$450 per month for generic Isotretinoin, depending on the dosage strength and pharmacy
• With insurance: Most plans cover generic Isotretinoin with a copay of $10–$75 per month, but prior authorization is often required
• Brand Absorica: $800–$1,500 per month without insurance; manufacturer savings cards may reduce this to as low as $10/month for eligible patients
• Discount cards: GoodRx and SingleCare coupons can bring generic Isotretinoin prices down to $150–$300/month

For more ways to lower your costs, read our complete guide on how to save money on Claravis.

Are There New Options in 2026?

While no new Isotretinoin formulations have launched recently, patients do have more generic options than ever before. The four main generics — Claravis, Amnesteem, Myorisan, and Zenatane — are all therapeutically equivalent. If one brand is unavailable, another may be in stock.

Absorica LD, a lower-dose formulation with improved bioavailability, remains an option for patients who want a brand-name product that can be taken with less dietary fat. Discuss this with your dermatologist if standard generics aren't working for you.

For a full comparison of your options, see our alternatives to Claravis guide.

How to Find Claravis in Stock

Here are the most effective strategies for finding Claravis or another Isotretinoin brand near you:

1. Use Medfinder: Search medfinder.com for real-time pharmacy stock in your area. It's faster than calling pharmacies individually.
2. Try independent pharmacies: They often have access to multiple wholesalers and may be able to source stock more flexibly than chain pharmacies.
3. Ask about all brands: Don't limit yourself to Claravis. Ask for Amnesteem, Myorisan, Zenatane, or Absorica — whichever is available.
4. Plan ahead: Start looking for your refill at least one week before you run out. With the 7-day iPLEDGE window, timing matters.
5. Talk to your dermatologist: They may know which pharmacies have stock or can adjust your prescription to a more available strength.

For more detailed tips, see our guide on how to find Claravis in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

The Claravis shortage situation in 2026 is frustrating but manageable. Supply isn't gone — it's uneven. With the right tools and a proactive approach, most patients can stay on track with their Isotretinoin treatment.

Stay informed, use Medfinder to check stock, keep your dermatologist in the loop, and remember that multiple Isotretinoin brands exist for exactly this kind of situation. Your acne treatment is too important to let a supply hiccup get in the way.

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