Cyclogyl Shortage Update: What Patients Need to Know in 2026

If you or your child relies on cyclopentolate eye drops — whether as Cyclogyl or its generic — this article gives you the latest update on the shortage, what's changed, and what your options are as a patient in 2026.

Is Cyclogyl Still in Shortage in 2026?

Yes. The FDA continues to list cyclopentolate hydrochloride as being in active shortage as of 2026. However, the situation has improved compared to the worst period in 2023-2024. Sandoz has increased its production capacity, and Alcon continues to produce brand-name Cyclogyl. Supply is more stable than it was during the acute phase of the shortage, but availability still varies significantly by region, concentration, and bottle size.

Cyclogyl Shortage Timeline: How Did We Get Here?

February 2023: Akorn Pharmaceuticals ceases all operations following bankruptcy. Akorn was one of the largest manufacturers of generic ophthalmic drugs in the U.S., including cyclopentolate. This created an immediate and severe supply gap.

2023-2024: The shortage reaches peak severity. Pharmacies across the country report being unable to obtain stock. Eye clinics cancel or postpone pediatric eye exams. Remaining manufacturers (Alcon, Sandoz, Bausch Health) work to increase production, but sterile ophthalmic manufacturing takes time to scale.

2025: Sandoz significantly increases cyclopentolate production. Supply improves in many regions. Some areas see consistent availability; others continue to experience intermittent shortages.

2026: The FDA still lists cyclopentolate in shortage, but supply has stabilized at many pharmacies. Availability remains inconsistent — what's in stock one week may not be the next. Patients and providers should continue checking availability before counting on it.

What Concentrations and Sizes Are Most Affected?

Cyclopentolate comes in three concentrations (0.5%, 1%, and 2%) and several bottle sizes (2 mL, 5 mL, 15 mL). During the shortage, availability has not been uniform across all strengths. In some areas:

The 1% solution (most commonly prescribed) may be unavailable while 0.5% is in stock

Smaller bottles (2 mL) may be available when larger sizes (15 mL) are not, or vice versa

Brand-name Cyclogyl may be available when generic cyclopentolate is not, despite being significantly more expensive

When calling pharmacies, be specific about the strength and size you need — and ask whether other options might be available if your usual one isn't in stock.

How Does This Shortage Affect Your Eye Care?

For most patients, cyclopentolate is administered by an eye care professional in their office during an exam — you don't usually pick it up at a retail pharmacy. So if your eye doctor says they have the supply to perform your exam, you're probably in good shape.

However, the shortage can affect you in these ways:

Your eye doctor's clinic may run low on supply and need to substitute or reschedule dilated exams

If you've been asked to bring your own cyclopentolate to an appointment, finding it at a retail pharmacy may be challenging

Prices may be higher at some pharmacies during shortage periods due to limited supply

Pediatric patients who need cycloplegic refraction may face longer waits or alternative protocols

What Should Patients Do Right Now?

Here are the most practical steps you can take:

Call your eye doctor's office before your appointment to confirm they have cyclopentolate available in their clinical supply.

If you need a retail prescription, use medfinder to search pharmacies near you. medfinder contacts pharmacies to check stock so you don't have to spend hours on the phone.

Ask about alternatives — tropicamide, atropine, or homatropine may be suitable depending on your situation. See our full guide to Cyclogyl alternatives.

Use a discount coupon when you do find it. GoodRx prices start at around $7.62 for generic cyclopentolate — a significant savings over the $25-$60 retail price.

Don't delay pediatric exams unnecessarily — even if cyclopentolate isn't available, your child's eye doctor can often use an alternative to complete a meaningful examination.