The Fluorometholone Shortage: Where Things Stand in 2026

If you rely on Fluorometholone eye drops to manage eye inflammation, you've probably noticed that filling your prescription has become a challenge. Reports of Fluorometholone being out of stock at pharmacies have been circulating for months, leaving patients anxious about whether they'll be able to get the medication they need.

Here's everything you need to know about the Fluorometholone shortage in 2026 — including whether it's still happening, what's causing it, and how to get your prescription filled.

Is Fluorometholone Still in Shortage?

As of early 2026, Fluorometholone ophthalmic products continue to experience intermittent supply disruptions. This means the medication isn't completely unavailable everywhere, but stock is inconsistent. Some pharmacies may have it while others nearby do not.

The shortage affects multiple formulations, including:

• Fluorometholone 0.1% suspension (generic and FML Liquifilm)
• Fluorometholone 0.25% suspension (FML Forte)
• Fluorometholone 0.1% ointment (FML S.O.P.)
• Fluorometholone Acetate 0.1% (Flarex)

Not all formulations are equally affected. Some patients have had better luck finding the ointment form or a different strength than what was originally prescribed.

Why Is Fluorometholone Hard to Find?

Several factors have contributed to the current supply challenges:

Few Manufacturers

Fluorometholone is a niche ophthalmic product made by a small number of companies, including Greenstone LLC, Sandoz, and Bausch + Lomb. When any one manufacturer pauses or slows production, it creates a ripple effect across the entire market.

Sterile Manufacturing Complexity

Ophthalmic products must be produced in sterile environments that meet strict FDA requirements. These specialized facilities are expensive to maintain and can't quickly scale up production when demand spikes or when another manufacturer drops out.

Supply Chain Pressures

Global supply chain challenges — including raw material sourcing and logistics delays — continue to affect pharmaceutical manufacturing in 2026. Ophthalmic products, which require specialized ingredients and packaging, are particularly vulnerable.

Allocation Limits

When supply is limited, wholesalers often implement allocation limits, restricting how much each pharmacy can order. This means even pharmacies that want to stock Fluorometholone may be limited in the quantity they can purchase.

How Much Does Fluorometholone Cost in 2026?

Cost is another challenge for patients dealing with the shortage. Here's what you can expect to pay:

• Cash price (no insurance): Approximately $100-$155 for a 5 mL bottle of generic Fluorometholone 0.1%
• With a discount coupon (SingleCare, GoodRx): Around $40-$60 for generic 0.1% suspension
• Brand-name FML: $180-$280 per bottle without insurance
• Brand-name FML Forte (0.25%): $200-$300 per bottle without insurance

Using a prescription discount card can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost, especially if you're paying cash or have a high-deductible insurance plan.

Are There New Options for Getting Fluorometholone?

While no new generic manufacturers have entered the market specifically for Fluorometholone in 2026, there are a few developments worth knowing about:

• Expanded distribution: Some manufacturers have increased distribution to underserved areas
• Alternative formulations: If the suspension is unavailable, the ointment form (FML S.O.P.) or Fluorometholone Acetate (Flarex) may be in stock
• Alternative medications: Drugs like Loteprednol Etabonate (Lotemax) and Prednisolone Acetate (Pred Forte) are more widely available and may be suitable substitutes

How to Find Fluorometholone in Stock

Here are the most effective steps you can take right now:

1. Use Medfinder

Medfinder provides real-time pharmacy stock information. Search for Fluorometholone, enter your ZIP code, and see which nearby pharmacies currently have it available.

2. Try Independent Pharmacies

Independent pharmacies often use different wholesalers than large chains and may have stock when CVS, Walgreens, or Rite Aid don't.

3. Ask About Special Orders

Your pharmacist may be able to place a special order through their wholesaler. Even during shortages, limited quantities may be available for direct orders.

4. Consider Mail-Order

Mail-order pharmacies draw from national supply and may have access to Fluorometholone when local pharmacies are out. Check with your insurance for mail-order options.

5. Talk to Your Doctor

If you absolutely cannot find Fluorometholone, your eye doctor can prescribe an appropriate alternative. Don't go without treatment — untreated eye inflammation can cause serious complications.

For a detailed walkthrough, read our guide: How to find Fluorometholone in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

The Fluorometholone shortage in 2026 is an ongoing challenge, but it's manageable with the right approach. Supply is intermittent rather than completely cut off, which means the medication is out there — you just may need to look a little harder to find it.

Start with Medfinder, explore independent pharmacies, and keep the lines of communication open with your eye doctor. If you're concerned about cost, check out our guide on saving money on Fluorometholone.