Flurazepam Shortage Update: What Patients Need to Know in 2026

Flurazepam — the long-acting benzodiazepine once sold as Dalmane — has been difficult to find at U.S. pharmacies for years, and the supply situation remains challenging in 2026. With only one active manufacturer and limited pharmacy stocking, patients on stable flurazepam regimens are facing real disruptions to their care. This article provides the most current update on the flurazepam shortage and what it means for you.

Current Shortage Status (2026)

As of late 2025 going into 2026, flurazepam capsules remain on the ASHP Drug Shortage bulletin, last updated on December 16, 2025. The core facts are:

Mylan (Viatris) discontinued both the 15 mg and 30 mg flurazepam capsules.

Chartwell Rx launched flurazepam capsules in November 2023 and is currently the only U.S. manufacturer.

Rising Pharmaceuticals plans to launch flurazepam but has not provided an estimated launch date.

Chartwell currently produces the 30 mg capsule in 90-count bottles (NDC 62135-0737-90).

A Brief History of the Flurazepam Shortage

Flurazepam has had a troubled supply history in the United States:

2019: Mylan, then the sole manufacturer, discontinued flurazepam capsules in January 2019. The drug became effectively unavailable in the U.S. market.

2019–2023: Flurazepam was nearly impossible to find for approximately four years. The FDA informed pharmacies in October 2019 that a resupply was expected, but significant delays followed.

November 2023: Chartwell Rx launched flurazepam capsules, making the drug available in the U.S. again.

2024–2025: Chartwell remains the sole manufacturer. Mylan discontinues its products entirely. The ASHP shortage bulletin is updated in December 2025, reflecting ongoing availability concerns.

2026: Availability remains uneven. Not all pharmacy chains stock Chartwell's flurazepam, and patients in some areas may struggle to find it without significant effort.

Why Is There Still a Shortage?

Having only one active manufacturer is inherently fragile. Any of the following factors can disrupt supply from Chartwell:

Manufacturing delays or quality holds

DEA manufacturing quota limits for Schedule IV controlled substances

Raw material sourcing issues for the active pharmaceutical ingredient

Limited pharmacy adoption — many chains haven't added Chartwell's flurazepam to their formulary or inventory systems

How Does This Affect You as a Patient?

For patients who have been stable on flurazepam for months or years, this shortage creates two primary risks:

1. Running out of medication: If you cannot find flurazepam and run out abruptly, you face real withdrawal risk. Benzodiazepine withdrawal can cause rebound insomnia, severe anxiety, tremors, and seizures. This is a medical emergency — contact your prescriber immediately.

2. Involuntary medication switches: Some patients are being switched to different sleep medications not because of a clinical reason but simply because flurazepam isn't available. If you prefer to stay on flurazepam, make sure your prescriber documents the medical necessity, as this may help in locating it.

What Can Patients Do Right Now?

Use medfinder: medfinder calls pharmacies near you to check which ones have flurazepam in stock, saving you time and frustration.

Plan ahead: Begin searching for your next refill at least one week before you run out, not the day you need it.

Try independent pharmacies: They often have better access to specialty generic manufacturers like Chartwell Rx.

Ask your pharmacist to order it: If they can source Chartwell's product through their wholesaler, it may arrive in 1–3 business days.

Discuss alternatives with your doctor: Temazepam (Restoril) is the most pharmacologically similar alternative and is widely available.

When Will the Shortage End?

There is no definitive end date. If Rising Pharmaceuticals completes its planned launch, a second manufacturer would significantly ease supply pressure. Until that happens, availability will remain inconsistent. The most important thing patients can do is plan ahead, use tools to search efficiently, and maintain open communication with their prescriber.

For more context on why this shortage is happening, read our detailed explainer: Why Is Flurazepam So Hard to Find?