Why Checking Nitroglycerin Stock Can Be Challenging

Nitroglycerin — particularly sublingual tablets like Nitrostat — has experienced intermittent shortages since 2023. With limited manufacturers and specialized packaging requirements (Nitroglycerin tablets must be stored in glass bottles to prevent degradation), supply disruptions can leave patients calling pharmacy after pharmacy.

The good news: you don't have to spend your afternoon on hold. Here are the best ways to check Nitroglycerin availability without picking up the phone.

Use MedFinder to Check Pharmacy Stock

MedFinder is designed specifically to help patients find medications that may be hard to locate. Simply enter "Nitroglycerin" along with your zip code, and MedFinder will show you pharmacies near you that have it in stock — or can order it quickly.

This is especially useful during Nitroglycerin shortage periods when availability varies widely from pharmacy to pharmacy.

Check Major Pharmacy Websites and Apps

Several large pharmacy chains offer online tools to check medication availability or transfer prescriptions:

CVS Pharmacy

CVS allows you to manage prescriptions through their app and website. While they don't show real-time stock levels publicly, you can:

• Submit your prescription for filling online and receive a notification if it's available
• Use the app to request a transfer from another pharmacy
• Check prescription status to see if it's ready (indicating stock availability)

Walgreens

Walgreens' app and website let you:

• Transfer prescriptions between locations
• Check prescription readiness status
• Contact the pharmacy through the app's messaging feature

Walmart Pharmacy

Walmart's pharmacy portal allows online prescription management. You can submit prescriptions and check whether they've been filled, which effectively tells you if the medication is in stock.

Rite Aid, Kroger, and Other Chains

Most major pharmacy chains have similar online tools. The key strategy: submit your prescription digitally and let the system tell you whether it can be filled at that location.

Use GoodRx to Compare Prices and Check Availability

While GoodRx is primarily known for discount coupons, it also provides useful information about which pharmacies near you carry specific medications. Search for Nitroglycerin on GoodRx, enter your zip code, and you'll see a list of nearby pharmacies with pricing — pharmacies that list prices generally carry the medication.

For more savings strategies, read our guide on how to save money on Nitroglycerin.

Try Independent and Specialty Pharmacies

During shortages, independent pharmacies sometimes have different supply chains than large chains. They may source Nitroglycerin from alternative wholesalers. Here's how to find them:

• NCPA Pharmacy Locator — The National Community Pharmacists Association maintains a directory of independent pharmacies
• Google Maps — Search "independent pharmacy near me" and check their websites or send a message through Google
• Compounding pharmacies — In some cases, compounding pharmacies can prepare Nitroglycerin formulations, though this should be discussed with your doctor

Ask Your Doctor's Office for Help

Your prescriber's office often has insight into which pharmacies are currently stocking Nitroglycerin. Many practices:

• Maintain relationships with specific pharmacies and know their stock status
• Can send electronic prescriptions to multiple pharmacies to check availability
• Have access to specialty pharmacy networks

If you need help finding a prescriber, see our guide on finding a doctor who prescribes Nitroglycerin.

Check Mail-Order and Online Pharmacies

Mail-order pharmacies often have larger inventories and may have Nitroglycerin when local pharmacies don't:

• Amazon Pharmacy — Check availability and pricing online
• Your insurance plan's mail-order pharmacy — Many insurance plans offer 90-day supplies at reduced cost
• Cost Plus Drugs — Mark Cuban's pharmacy offers transparent pricing on generics

Important: Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets have specific storage requirements (cool temperature, original glass container). Ensure any mail-order pharmacy ships with appropriate packaging, especially in hot weather.

What to Do If You Can't Find Nitroglycerin Anywhere

If your search comes up empty:

1. Ask about alternative formulations — If sublingual tablets are unavailable, Nitroglycerin spray (Nitrolingual, Nitromist) may be in stock. Patches are another option for prevention.
2. Discuss alternatives with your doctor — Other nitrates like isosorbide mononitrate or isosorbide dinitrate may be appropriate. See our guide on alternatives to Nitroglycerin.
3. Check the FDA drug shortage database — FDA Drug Shortages provides updates on current supply issues and expected resolution dates.
4. Contact the manufacturer — Pfizer (Nitrostat) and other manufacturers sometimes have direct patient assistance during shortages.

Tips for Staying Ahead of Nitroglycerin Supply Issues

• Refill early — Don't wait until you're on your last few tablets. Request refills when you have a week's supply remaining.
• Build a relationship with your pharmacist — A pharmacist who knows you can sometimes set aside stock or notify you when a shipment arrives.
• Keep your prescription current — Expired prescriptions add delay. Make sure your doctor renews yours before it lapses.
• Store properly — Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets degrade when exposed to heat, light, or moisture. Keep them in the original glass bottle, tightly closed, at room temperature. Proper storage means you won't lose tablets to degradation.

Finding Nitroglycerin doesn't have to be stressful. With the right tools and a proactive approach, you can locate your medication quickly and avoid gaps in your treatment. Start your search at MedFinder.com.