Why Checking Yervoy Stock Is Different from Other Medications

Yervoy (ipilimumab) is not a medication you pick up at your local pharmacy. It's a specialty biologic administered by IV infusion in a hospital or infusion center. This means checking stock isn't as simple as calling Walgreens or CVS.

Yervoy is typically stocked by hospital pharmacies, specialty pharmacies, and outpatient infusion centers. Because it's expensive — a single 200 mg vial can cost over $35,000 — most facilities order it on an as-needed basis rather than keeping large quantities on the shelf. This can sometimes lead to delays, especially if there are supply chain disruptions.

How to Check Yervoy Availability Online

Here are the best ways to check if Yervoy is available near you without picking up the phone:

1. Use MedFinder

MedFinder.com is built specifically for situations like this. You can search for Yervoy and see which pharmacies and infusion centers in your area have it available. It's free to use and saves you from calling around.

2. Check Your Cancer Center's Patient Portal

If you're already receiving treatment at a cancer center, log into your patient portal. Many centers now allow you to:

• View upcoming infusion appointments
• See if medications have been ordered for your next treatment
• Message your care team with questions about drug availability

If your portal doesn't show this information, send a message to your oncology nurse or pharmacy team through the portal.

3. Contact Specialty Pharmacies Online

Specialty pharmacies that distribute oncology drugs often have online portals or chat features. Some of the largest specialty pharmacy networks include:

• Optum Specialty Pharmacy
• CVS Specialty
• Accredo (Express Scripts)
• AllianceRx Walgreens Specialty

If your doctor has already sent a prescription, the specialty pharmacy assigned to your case may be able to confirm availability through their website or app.

4. Ask Your Insurance Company

Since Yervoy is covered under Medicare Part B and most commercial insurance as a physician-administered drug, your insurer may be able to tell you which in-network infusion centers currently carry it. Many insurers have online provider directories with specialty pharmacy information.

What to Do If Yervoy Is Out of Stock

If your infusion center cannot get Yervoy in time for your scheduled treatment, don't panic. Here are your options:

• Ask about alternative infusion centers. Your oncologist may be able to arrange treatment at a different location that has Yervoy in stock. Use our guide to finding Yervoy in stock for help.
• Check with Bristol Myers Squibb. BMS Access Support at 1-800-861-0048 may be able to help locate available supply or expedite shipment to your treatment center.
• Discuss timing with your doctor. A short delay in treatment may be acceptable depending on your treatment schedule. Your oncologist can advise you on whether a brief wait poses any risk.
• Ask about alternatives. In some cases, your doctor may consider alternative treatments if Yervoy is unavailable for an extended period.

Why Yervoy Stock Can Be Unpredictable

Several factors can affect Yervoy availability at any given location:

• Made-to-order stocking. Because each vial is so expensive, most facilities only order Yervoy when a patient has an upcoming infusion scheduled. They don't keep extra vials "just in case."
• Shipping and cold chain requirements. As a biologic, Yervoy must be stored under specific temperature conditions. Distribution depends on reliable cold chain logistics.
• Insurance authorization delays. Even if the pharmacy has Yervoy, your infusion may be delayed if insurance prior authorization hasn't been completed.
• Regional demand fluctuations. A surge in new prescriptions at a particular facility can temporarily deplete their supply.

Tips to Avoid Yervoy Stock Surprises

• Confirm availability a few days before each infusion. Don't assume it's ready just because you have an appointment.
• Complete insurance paperwork early. Work with your doctor's office to submit prior authorization as soon as possible.
• Keep your oncology team informed. If you change insurance, address, or treatment center, let your team know immediately so they can coordinate supply.
• Understand your treatment schedule. For melanoma monotherapy, Yervoy is given every 3 weeks for 4 doses. Knowing your schedule helps you plan ahead.

The Bottom Line

Checking Yervoy stock doesn't have to mean hours on the phone. Online tools like MedFinder, patient portals, and specialty pharmacy websites can give you answers faster. The key is to be proactive — check a few days before your infusion, keep communication open with your care team, and know your backup options.

For more help, see our guides on why Yervoy can be hard to find and how to save money on Yervoy.