Gastrocrom in 2026: The Shortage Continues

If you've been trying to fill a Gastrocrom prescription lately, you've likely encountered empty shelves and back-ordered status at pharmacies across the country. The Gastrocrom (Cromolyn Sodium oral concentrate) shortage isn't new — but heading into 2026, patients are still feeling the impact.

In this update, we'll cover the current state of Gastrocrom availability, why the shortage persists, what it costs in 2026, and the most practical steps you can take to get the medication you need.

Is Gastrocrom Still in Shortage?

As of early 2026, Gastrocrom continues to experience intermittent availability issues. While it has not been officially listed as "discontinued" by the FDA, many patients report significant difficulty finding it at retail pharmacies.

The situation is best described as a chronic supply constraint rather than a traditional acute shortage. The medication is being manufactured by Azurity Pharmaceuticals, but production volume doesn't consistently meet patient demand. This means:

• Some pharmacies may have stock while others don't
• Availability can change week to week
• Certain regions may have better access than others

The FDA's drug shortage database and the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) can provide additional official shortage information.

Why Is Gastrocrom Still Hard to Find?

The reasons behind the Gastrocrom shortage haven't changed much in recent years. The core issues remain:

Limited Manufacturing

Azurity Pharmaceuticals is the primary manufacturer. With so few companies producing Cromolyn Sodium oral concentrate, there's no backup when production issues arise. Raw material sourcing, manufacturing capacity, and quality control all affect output.

Niche Patient Population

Gastrocrom is primarily prescribed for systemic mastocytosis, a rare condition. The small patient base means low commercial incentive for pharmaceutical companies to invest in expanded production or enter the market as competitors.

Distribution Gaps

Even when stock exists, it may not be distributed evenly. Large pharmacy chains stock based on local demand patterns, and many locations have stopped carrying Gastrocrom altogether. For a deeper explanation, see our article on why Gastrocrom is so hard to find.

How Much Does Gastrocrom Cost in 2026?

Cost remains a significant barrier for many patients. Here's what you can expect to pay:

• Brand-name Gastrocrom: $300–$900+ for a 96-ampule supply (approximately one month at standard dosing of 2 ampules four times daily)
• Generic Cromolyn Sodium oral concentrate: $250–$700 for a comparable supply
• With insurance: Copays vary widely. Many plans require prior authorization, and some classify Gastrocrom as a specialty medication with higher cost-sharing

If cost is a concern, we've put together a comprehensive guide on how to save money on Gastrocrom, including coupons, discount cards, and patient assistance programs.

Are There New Options in 2026?

While no new brand-name alternatives to Gastrocrom have entered the market, patients do have some options:

• Generic Cromolyn Sodium: The generic is available, though it faces similar supply constraints. It may be slightly easier to find than brand-name Gastrocrom.
• Compounded Cromolyn Sodium: Compounding pharmacies can prepare oral Cromolyn Sodium solutions from bulk powder. This can be a lifeline when manufactured products are unavailable.
• Alternative medications: Drugs like Ketotifen (compounded oral), Hydroxyzine, Famotidine, and OTC antihistamines can help manage symptoms. See our full alternatives guide for details.

How to Find Gastrocrom in Stock Right Now

Here are the most effective strategies for finding Gastrocrom today:

1. Use Medfinder to check real-time pharmacy stock near your location
2. Call independent pharmacies — they often have better access to hard-to-find medications through multiple wholesalers
3. Ask about specialty pharmacies — your doctor may be able to refer you to a pharmacy that specializes in rare disease medications
4. Try mail-order — check your insurance plan's mail-order option or specialty pharmacy benefit
5. Plan ahead — start looking for refills 2-3 weeks before you run out

For a complete walkthrough, read our guide on how to find Gastrocrom in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

The Gastrocrom shortage in 2026 remains a real challenge for patients with mastocytosis and related conditions. While the situation hasn't dramatically improved, there are more resources available than ever to help you navigate it — from real-time stock checkers like Medfinder to compounding options and alternative medications.

Stay proactive, work closely with your healthcare team, and don't wait until you're completely out to start searching. The more lead time you give yourself, the better your chances of finding what you need.