Crexont XR shortage update: What patients need to know in 2026

Updated:

February 24, 2026

Author:

Peter Daggett

Summarize this blog with AI:

Is Crexont in shortage in 2026? Get the latest update on Crexont availability, what's causing supply issues, and what patients can do right now.

Crexont Shortage Update: February 2026

If you've been struggling to find Crexont (Carbidopa/Levodopa extended-release capsules) at your pharmacy, you're not imagining things. Many Parkinson's disease patients across the United States are reporting difficulty filling their Crexont prescriptions in early 2026.

Here's everything you need to know about the current Crexont supply situation, what's behind it, and what you can do.

Is Crexont Officially in Shortage?

As of February 2026, Crexont is not listed on the FDA's official Drug Shortages Database. This means the FDA has not formally classified it as being in shortage. However, that doesn't mean it's easy to find.

The reality is that Crexont has limited distribution. Because it is a brand-new medication (FDA-approved August 2024, launched late 2024) with no generic version, not all pharmacies stock it. Some pharmacies and coupon sites like GoodRx have noted that Crexont "isn't available in pharmacies at this time" in certain areas.

What's Causing the Limited Availability?

Several factors are contributing to the difficulty patients face when trying to fill their Crexont prescription:

  • New product ramp-up. Amneal Pharmaceuticals is still building its distribution network for Crexont. New drugs typically take 12 to 24 months to reach full market penetration.
  • No generic competition. Crexont is the only brand available. There is no generic Carbidopa/Levodopa extended-release capsule in this formulation.
  • Pharmacy stocking decisions. Many pharmacies won't stock a new brand-name drug until they have regular demand for it.
  • Insurance barriers. Prior authorization requirements and step therapy policies can slow adoption, which in turn reduces pharmacy demand and stocking.

How Does This Affect Patients?

For patients who depend on Crexont to manage their Parkinson's symptoms, limited availability can mean:

  • Delays in filling prescriptions (sometimes days or weeks)
  • Having to visit multiple pharmacies or make numerous phone calls
  • Potential gaps in treatment, which can worsen symptoms
  • Stress and frustration during an already challenging time

If you are experiencing motor fluctuations or worsening symptoms because you can't get Crexont, contact your neurologist right away. They can help you find a temporary alternative.

What Is Amneal Pharmaceuticals Doing?

Amneal Pharmaceuticals has taken several steps to improve access to Crexont:

  • Crexont Savings Program: Commercially insured patients may pay as little as $25 per fill (maximum savings of $150 per 30-day supply). Learn more in our savings guide.
  • Patient Assistance Program: Uninsured or underinsured patients who meet income criteria may qualify for free medication through Amneal's Patient Support Services.
  • Provider education: Amneal is working with neurologists and movement disorder specialists to increase awareness and prescribing of Crexont.

What Can You Do Right Now?

Here are actionable steps to help you get your Crexont prescription filled:

  1. Search MedFinder. Use MedFinder to find pharmacies near you that have Crexont in stock.
  2. Ask your pharmacy to order it. Most pharmacies can special-order Crexont within 1 to 3 business days.
  3. Try a different pharmacy. Large chain pharmacies and specialty pharmacies may have better availability. Learn how to check pharmacy stock.
  4. Explore mail-order options. Your insurance may offer mail-order pharmacy services with broader inventory.
  5. Talk to your doctor. If you're running low, your doctor can prescribe a temporary alternative medication like Rytary or Sinemet CR.
  6. Enroll in savings programs. Visit crexont.com to sign up for the savings program or patient assistance.

When Will Crexont Be Easier to Find?

While there's no exact date, availability is expected to improve steadily throughout 2026 as:

  • Amneal expands manufacturing and distribution
  • More neurologists prescribe Crexont, driving pharmacy stocking
  • Insurance companies add Crexont to more formularies
  • Patient awareness grows

We'll continue to update this page as new information becomes available. Bookmark this page and check back regularly.

Stay Informed

For more information about Crexont, read our other guides:

Search for Crexont near you on MedFinder →

Is Crexont on the FDA shortage list?

No. As of February 2026, Crexont is not listed on the FDA's official Drug Shortages Database. However, many patients still have trouble finding it because it is a new brand-name drug with limited pharmacy distribution.

How long will the Crexont shortage last?

Crexont's limited availability is expected to improve throughout 2026 as Amneal Pharmaceuticals ramps up production and distribution. There is no specific end date, but new drug launches typically reach full market availability within 12 to 24 months.

What should I do if I can't find Crexont and I'm running out?

Contact your neurologist immediately. Do not stop taking your Parkinson's medication abruptly. Your doctor can prescribe a temporary alternative such as Rytary or Sinemet CR while you work on locating Crexont.

Will Crexont become available as a generic?

Not in the near future. As of February 2026, there is no generic version of Crexont approved or expected soon. The medication's unique extended-release formulation is protected by patents. Generic immediate-release Carbidopa/Levodopa is available as a different product.

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