Why Checking Trifluridine Stock Matters

You've just been diagnosed with herpes simplex keratitis and your doctor has prescribed Trifluridine (Viroptic) eye drops. Now you need to fill that prescription — but Trifluridine isn't like picking up ibuprofen. This specialty antiviral eye drop has a history of intermittent supply disruptions, and not every pharmacy keeps it on the shelf. The last thing you want to do when you have a painful eye infection is drive from pharmacy to pharmacy hoping someone has it.

Here's how to check availability before you leave home.

Why Trifluridine Can Be Hard to Find

Trifluridine ophthalmic solution is produced by only a handful of manufacturers, including Sandoz and Apotex. When any one of them has a production issue, supply gets tight fast. The medication must also be stored refrigerated, which means pharmacies that don't regularly dispense it may choose not to stock it at all. For a deeper dive into why, see our article on why Trifluridine is so hard to find.

How to Check Stock Without Calling

1. Use Medfinder

Medfinder is built specifically for finding medications that are hard to locate. Search for Trifluridine and you'll see which pharmacies near you currently have it in stock. This is especially useful for medications like Trifluridine that experience intermittent shortages.

2. Check Pharmacy Apps and Websites

Major pharmacy chains have online tools that can give you a sense of availability:

• CVS: Use the CVS app or website to check prescription pricing. While it doesn't always show real-time stock, you can attempt to transfer or fill a prescription online — if the system accepts it, the pharmacy likely has the medication or can order it.
• Walgreens: The Walgreens app lets you search for medications and check pricing at specific locations.
• Rite Aid, Kroger, Walmart: Similar online prescription tools are available on their websites.

Keep in mind that these tools are better at showing pricing than confirming stock. They may show a price even if the medication needs to be ordered.

3. Use GoodRx for Price Comparison and Stock Hints

GoodRx shows prices for Trifluridine at pharmacies near you. While it's primarily a price comparison tool, pharmacies that show up with pricing are more likely to have the medication available or be able to order it quickly. GoodRx also shows which form and strength is available at each location.

4. Try Your Insurance Plan's Pharmacy Locator

If you have prescription drug coverage, your insurance company's website or app may have a pharmacy finder that shows which in-network pharmacies carry specific medications. Log in, search for Trifluridine, and filter by pharmacies near your zip code.

5. Check Specialty and Compounding Pharmacies

If chain pharmacies don't have Trifluridine, consider specialty pharmacies. Your ophthalmologist's office may have a relationship with a specialty pharmacy that stocks ophthalmic medications. Compounding pharmacies may also be able to prepare Trifluridine if commercial supply is unavailable — ask your doctor if this is an option.

If You Prefer to Call

Sometimes a quick phone call is the most direct route. Here are tips to make it efficient:

• Call the pharmacy closest to your doctor's office first. Eye care clinics often send prescriptions to nearby pharmacies that are used to stocking ophthalmic medications.
• Ask specifically: "Do you currently have Trifluridine 1% ophthalmic solution in stock?" Be specific about the formulation so there's no confusion.
• Ask about ordering: If they don't have it, ask how long it would take to order. Some pharmacies can get it within 24 hours from their distributor.
• Call during off-peak hours (early morning or mid-afternoon) when pharmacy staff are less busy and can check thoroughly.

Once You Find It

When you've located a pharmacy with Trifluridine in stock:

• Fill it right away. Don't wait — stock can change quickly, especially for medications with limited supply.
• Ask about cost. Without insurance, Trifluridine costs $300 to $400 per bottle. With discount coupons like SingleCare, you may pay as little as $201. Check our savings guide for more options.
• Confirm storage. Make sure the pharmacy has been storing it refrigerated (36°F to 46°F). Properly stored Trifluridine maintains its potency throughout its shelf life.
• Plan ahead for refills. If your treatment requires more than one bottle or you have recurrent infections, ask the pharmacy if they can keep Trifluridine in stock for you or set up automatic ordering.

Final Thoughts

Herpes simplex keratitis is time-sensitive — the sooner you start Trifluridine, the better your outcomes. Don't let availability issues delay your treatment. Use online tools like Medfinder, pharmacy apps, and GoodRx to check stock before you head out. And if you're dealing with a broader shortage, keep an eye on our Trifluridine shortage update for the latest information.