Fluvoxamine XR Shortage Update: What Patients Need to Know in 2026

Updated:

February 14, 2026

Author:

Peter Daggett

Summarize this blog with AI:

The Fluvoxamine XR shortage continues into 2026. Here's the latest on supply, pricing, and what patients can do to keep their treatment on track.

The Fluvoxamine XR Shortage: Where Things Stand in 2026

If you take Fluvoxamine XR for OCD or social anxiety, you've likely been affected by one of the longest-running drug shortages in recent years. The shortage of Fluvoxamine extended-release capsules began in early 2024, and as we head deeper into 2026, supply remains inconsistent.

This article gives you the latest update on what's happening with Fluvoxamine XR supply, how much it costs, what new options are available, and how to find it in stock.

Is Fluvoxamine XR Still in Shortage?

Yes. As of early 2026, Fluvoxamine Maleate Extended-Release Capsules remain on the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) drug shortage list. The shortage was first reported in February 2024 and has persisted for nearly two years.

Both manufacturers of generic Fluvoxamine ER — Par Pharmaceuticals and Teva Pharmaceuticals — have experienced intermittent supply issues. While both companies have had some product available at various times, neither has been able to consistently meet demand for the 100 mg and 150 mg capsule strengths.

The original brand, Luvox CR, was discontinued years ago, so there is no brand-name fallback option.

Why Is Fluvoxamine XR So Hard to Find?

Several factors have combined to create and prolong this shortage:

  • Limited manufacturers: Only two companies (Par and Teva) make generic Fluvoxamine ER capsules. This leaves zero margin for error — when one has production issues, half the national supply disappears.
  • Supply chain disruptions: Both manufacturers have cited raw material sourcing challenges and manufacturing delays.
  • No brand alternative: With Luvox CR discontinued, patients can't simply switch to a brand-name version.
  • Steady demand: Fluvoxamine continues to be an important treatment for OCD and anxiety, and prescribing rates haven't declined.

For a deeper look at the causes, see: Why Is Fluvoxamine XR So Hard to Find?

How Much Does Fluvoxamine XR Cost in 2026?

The cost of Fluvoxamine XR varies significantly depending on whether you have insurance and which pharmacy you use:

  • Cash price (no insurance): $170 to $440 for a 30-day supply, depending on the strength (100 mg or 150 mg)
  • With a GoodRx coupon: As low as $75 for 30 capsules of the 100 mg strength
  • With a SingleCare coupon: Around $107 for 30 capsules of the 150 mg strength
  • With insurance: Copays typically range from $10 to $50, depending on your plan and formulary tier

By comparison, Fluvoxamine immediate-release tablets cost as little as $16 to $22 for a 30-day supply with a coupon — making the IR formulation a significantly more affordable option.

For more ways to reduce costs, read: How to Save Money on Fluvoxamine XR

What New Options Are Available?

While no new manufacturers have entered the market for Fluvoxamine ER capsules specifically, there are several options patients should know about:

Fluvoxamine Immediate-Release (IR) Tablets

The most straightforward alternative is switching to the IR formulation. It contains the same active ingredient and is equally effective. The main difference is that IR tablets are taken twice daily instead of once at bedtime. IR tablets are more widely available and much cheaper — starting around $16 per month with coupons.

Other SSRI Medications

If Fluvoxamine IR isn't right for you, other SSRIs like Sertraline (Zoloft), Fluoxetine (Prozac), and Paroxetine (Paxil) are all FDA-approved for OCD and/or anxiety disorders. These are all available as inexpensive generics with no current shortage issues. See our full comparison: Alternatives to Fluvoxamine XR

Telehealth Prescribing

If you're having trouble getting an appointment with your regular psychiatrist or doctor to discuss alternatives, telehealth platforms now widely prescribe SSRIs including Fluvoxamine. This can be a faster way to get a new prescription or discuss a medication switch. Learn more: How to Find a Doctor Who Can Prescribe Fluvoxamine XR

How to Find Fluvoxamine XR in Stock

If you want to stay on Fluvoxamine XR, here are the most effective strategies for locating it:

  1. Use Medfinder: Medfinder.com checks pharmacy stock in real time, showing you exactly which pharmacies near you have Fluvoxamine XR available right now.
  2. Try independent pharmacies: They often have different suppliers than chain pharmacies and may have stock when CVS and Walgreens don't.
  3. Ask your pharmacist to order it: Sometimes the drug is available through wholesalers even when it's not on the shelf. Your pharmacist may be able to special-order it for you.
  4. Check back frequently: Supply comes in waves. A pharmacy that's out today might have it tomorrow.

For our complete guide: How to Find Fluvoxamine XR in Stock Near You

Final Thoughts

The Fluvoxamine XR shortage has been one of the more persistent drug supply challenges in recent years. With only two manufacturers and ongoing production issues, it's unlikely to fully resolve in the near term.

But you're not powerless. Between stock-checking tools, the widely available IR formulation, effective alternative SSRIs, and discount programs to manage costs, there are real steps you can take to keep your treatment on track. The most important thing is to stay in touch with your prescriber and never stop your medication abruptly.

We'll continue updating this page as the situation evolves. Bookmark it and check back for the latest.

When will the Fluvoxamine XR shortage end?

There is no confirmed end date for the shortage. It began in February 2024 and continues into 2026. Both manufacturers (Par Pharmaceuticals and Teva) have had intermittent supply, but neither has provided a firm timeline for full resolution. Check ASHP's drug shortage database for the latest updates.

Is Fluvoxamine XR covered by insurance during the shortage?

Yes, generic Fluvoxamine ER remains on most commercial insurance and Medicare Part D formularies. However, some plans may require prior authorization or step therapy. If your plan won't cover it, ask your doctor about an appeal or switching to the IR formulation, which is typically covered with lower copays.

Can my doctor prescribe a 90-day supply of Fluvoxamine XR?

In theory, yes — but during a shortage, pharmacies may limit dispensing to 30-day supplies to ensure more patients can access the medication. Some mail-order pharmacies may still fill 90-day prescriptions if they have stock. Ask your insurance plan about mail-order options.

What happens if I run out of Fluvoxamine XR and can't find more?

Contact your prescriber immediately. Do not stop Fluvoxamine XR abruptly, as this can cause discontinuation symptoms like dizziness, nausea, irritability, and mood changes. Your doctor can help you taper safely or switch to Fluvoxamine IR tablets or another SSRI to bridge the gap.

Why waste time calling, coordinating, and hunting?

You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.

Try Medfinder Concierge Free

Medfinder's mission is to ensure every patient gets access to the medications they need. We believe this begins with trustworthy information. Our core values guide everything we do, including the standards that shape the accuracy, transparency, and quality of our content. We’re committed to delivering information that’s evidence-based, regularly updated, and easy to understand. For more details on our editorial process, see here.

25,000+ have already found their meds with Medfinder.

Start your search today.
99% success rate
Fast-turnaround time
Never call another pharmacy