Finding Bacitracin/Polymyxin B Shouldn't Be This Hard

You've got an eye infection, your doctor prescribed Bacitracin/Polymyxin B ophthalmic ointment, and now your pharmacy says they don't have it. Sound familiar? Since the ongoing shortage began in 2024, this has become an all-too-common experience for patients across the country.

The good news is that Bacitracin/Polymyxin B hasn't completely vanished — it's just harder to track down. With the right approach, you can find it. Here are the best tools and tips to help you locate this medication in stock near you.

Tip #1: Use Medfinder to Check Pharmacy Stock

The fastest way to find Bacitracin/Polymyxin B is to use an online pharmacy inventory tool. Medfinder lets you search for medications and see which nearby pharmacies currently have them in stock.

Here's how it works:

1. Visit medfinder.com
2. Search for "Bacitracin/Polymyxin B" or "Polysporin Ophthalmic"
3. Enter your zip code
4. See a list of pharmacies near you that have it available

This can save you hours of calling around to pharmacies one by one. Medfinder updates its information regularly, so you're getting a current picture of what's available in your area.

For a deeper look at how to verify stock, see our guide on how to check if a pharmacy has Bacitracin/Polymyxin B in stock.

Tip #2: Try Independent and Compounding Pharmacies

When there's a drug shortage, large chain pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid often run out first. They serve large patient populations and their inventory is managed centrally, which means individual stores may not be able to stock extra.

Independent pharmacies can be a great alternative. Here's why:

• They often have more flexibility in ordering from different wholesalers and distributors
• They may serve fewer patients, so their stock lasts longer
• Pharmacists at independents tend to have more time to help you find solutions

Compounding pharmacies are another option worth exploring. These specialized pharmacies can sometimes prepare antibiotic eye ointments using the same active ingredients. While compounded medications aren't identical to manufactured products, they can be a viable alternative when the manufactured version isn't available. Ask your doctor if a compounded version would be appropriate for your situation.

Tip #3: Time Your Pharmacy Visits Strategically

Pharmacies receive shipments from wholesalers on set schedules — often two to three times per week. If you can find out when your pharmacy's next delivery is, you can call or visit shortly after to catch new stock before it sells out.

Some practical timing tips:

• Call early in the day. Deliveries often arrive in the morning, and the pharmacy team processes them throughout the day.
• Ask the pharmacist directly. Say something like: "I know this medication is in shortage. When is your next delivery, and can you check if it's on the order?"
• Try Tuesdays and Thursdays. Many pharmacies receive their biggest wholesaler deliveries mid-week, though this varies by location.
• Be persistent but polite. Pharmacists are dealing with frustrated patients all day. A kind approach goes a long way.

What If You Still Can't Find It?

If you've tried all these approaches and still can't locate Bacitracin/Polymyxin B, don't panic. Here are some additional steps:

Ask Your Doctor About Alternatives

Several other antibiotic eye medications can treat the same infections. Your doctor might switch you to:

• Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment — a widely available alternative for bacterial conjunctivitis
• Tobramycin (Tobrex) — available as drops and ointment
• Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) — a fluoroquinolone available as drops and ointment

Read more in our complete guide to alternatives to Bacitracin/Polymyxin B.

Have Your Doctor Send the Prescription Elsewhere

If your regular pharmacy can't fill the prescription, ask your doctor's office to send it to a pharmacy that has it in stock. Most prescriptions can be easily transferred electronically.

Consider Mail-Order Pharmacies

Mail-order pharmacies and online pharmacies sometimes have access to different supply channels. If you're not in urgent need (your infection is mild), waiting a few days for mail delivery could be worth it.

Look Into Discount Programs

If you do find Bacitracin/Polymyxin B in stock but the price is high, discount cards can help. With coupons from SingleCare, the price can drop from around $70 to as low as $15. For more savings tips, check out our guide on how to save money on Bacitracin/Polymyxin B.

How to Find a Doctor Who Can Prescribe Bacitracin/Polymyxin B

If you don't already have a prescription, you'll need to see a doctor first. Bacitracin/Polymyxin B ophthalmic ointment requires a prescription — it's not the same as the over-the-counter Polysporin you can buy for skin cuts.

Eye infections can be diagnosed and treated by:

• Ophthalmologists
• Optometrists
• Primary care doctors
• Urgent care providers
• Telehealth doctors (for straightforward cases like pink eye)

Need help finding a provider? See our guide on how to find a doctor who can prescribe Bacitracin/Polymyxin B near you.

Final Thoughts

Finding Bacitracin/Polymyxin B during the current shortage takes a bit more effort, but it's not impossible. Start with Medfinder to check local pharmacy stock, branch out to independent and compounding pharmacies, and time your visits strategically. If all else fails, your doctor can help you find an effective alternative.

The shortage is expected to ease as Padagis resumes production (estimated October 2026), but until then, being proactive is your best strategy.