Condylox Shortage: What Providers and Prescribers Need to Know in 2026

Provider Briefing: The Condylox Shortage in 2026

The Condylox (Podofilox) shortage has been a persistent clinical challenge since mid-2023, impacting patient access to one of the most commonly prescribed topical treatments for external genital and perianal warts. This briefing provides an up-to-date overview of the shortage status, prescribing implications, and practical tools to support your patients through ongoing availability issues.

For the patient-facing perspective on this shortage, see our patient shortage update.

Shortage Timeline

The Podofilox shortage has evolved through several phases:

• July 2023: The ASHP drug shortage database first reported a shortage of Podofilox 0.5% topical gel. AbbVie — the sole manufacturer of the Condylox gel formulation — cited manufacturing issues as the cause.
• 2023–2024: The shortage persisted with intermittent availability. The ASHP updated its entry through April 2024. Some pharmacies received intermittent shipments while others reported prolonged stockouts lasting weeks to months.
• 2025–2026: Availability of the gel formulation remains inconsistent. No additional manufacturers have entered the market for the gel. The generic Podofilox 0.5% topical solution — produced by multiple manufacturers — has maintained more consistent supply, though pharmacy-level availability varies due to the medication's niche market profile.

Prescribing Implications

The shortage has several practical implications for prescribers:

Formulation Considerations

The two Podofilox formulations have distinct FDA indications:

• 0.5% topical solution: FDA-approved for external genital warts only. Available as generic from multiple manufacturers. Typically more accessible and significantly less expensive.
• 0.5% topical gel (Condylox): FDA-approved for external genital and perianal warts. Manufactured solely by AbbVie. Subject to ongoing supply disruptions.

For patients requiring treatment of external genital warts (non-perianal), the generic solution may be readily substituted. For perianal warts, the gel is the only Podofilox formulation with an on-label indication, though provider-applied treatments (cryotherapy, TCA) remain available alternatives.

Insurance and Access Barriers

Beyond supply issues, patients frequently encounter:

• Prior authorization requirements: Some payers require documentation of medical necessity before covering Condylox
• Step therapy mandates: Certain plans require trial and failure of alternative treatments (e.g., Imiquimod) before approving Podofilox
• Cost barriers: Brand-name Condylox gel retails at approximately $487–$930 per tube. Even patients with insurance may face substantial copays. Generic Podofilox solution is far more affordable at $32–$50 with discount coupons.

Current Availability Picture

As of early 2026, the availability landscape is:

• Condylox gel: Intermittent availability. AbbVie has not publicly announced resolution of manufacturing issues. Pharmacies report inconsistent stock, and wholesale availability varies by distributor and region.
• Generic Podofilox solution: Generally available through multiple manufacturers, though many retail pharmacies do not routinely stock it due to low demand. Special ordering through wholesale distributors typically takes 1–3 business days.
• Alternative topical therapies (Imiquimod, Sinecatechins): Widely available. Generic Imiquimod 5% cream is readily accessible at most pharmacies.

Cost and Access Considerations

Providers can help patients navigate the financial burden of genital wart treatment:

• Generic Podofilox solution: $32–$50 with discount cards (GoodRx, SingleCare, RxSaver)
• Generic Imiquimod 5% cream: $30–$80 with discount cards
• Sinecatechins (Veregen): $300–$600 without insurance — less cost-effective as a first-line option
• Cryotherapy: $200–$500 per session, typically covered as an office procedure under most insurance plans
• TCA application: $100–$300 per session, often billable as a minor procedure

There are currently no manufacturer savings programs or formal patient assistance programs available for Condylox or generic Podofilox. Discount prescription cards remain the most effective cost-reduction tool for patients paying out of pocket.

For comprehensive savings strategies to share with patients, see our guide on saving money on Condylox.

Tools and Resources for Providers

Several resources can help you and your patients navigate this shortage:

Medfinder for Providers

Medfinder offers real-time pharmacy availability data, helping you direct patients to pharmacies that currently have Podofilox in stock. Rather than asking patients to call around, you can recommend they check Medfinder before leaving your office. Visit medfinder.com/providers for provider-specific tools and resources.

ASHP Drug Shortage Database

The ASHP maintains the most comprehensive drug shortage database in the U.S. Monitor the Podofilox gel entry for updates on estimated resupply dates and manufacturer communications.

Prescribing Alternatives

When Podofilox is unavailable, consider the following evidence-based alternatives per CDC STI Treatment Guidelines:

• Patient-applied: Imiquimod 5% cream (Aldara) or 3.75% (Zyclara); Sinecatechins 15% ointment (Veregen)
• Provider-applied: Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen; Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) 80–90%; Surgical excision for larger or refractory warts

For a patient-friendly comparison of alternatives, direct patients to our alternatives to Condylox article.

Looking Ahead

The Podofilox gel shortage is unlikely to resolve quickly absent a new manufacturer entering the market. Providers should:

• Default to prescribing generic Podofilox 0.5% solution for external genital warts when clinically appropriate
• Maintain familiarity with alternative agents and in-office procedures
• Proactively discuss availability and cost with patients at the point of prescribing
• Consider referring patients to Medfinder for real-time stock checks

Final Thoughts

The Condylox shortage reflects broader trends in pharmaceutical supply chain fragility, particularly for niche medications with limited manufacturers. As prescribers, we can mitigate the impact on patient care by staying informed about availability, prescribing cost-effective formulations, and leveraging tools that connect patients with pharmacies that have stock.

For a practical workflow guide on helping patients find Condylox, see our provider's guide to helping patients find Condylox.