Finding Dotti in 2026 Takes a Little Extra Work — But It's Possible

If your pharmacist just told you Dotti is on backorder, don't panic. Yes, there's a nationwide shortage of estradiol patches right now. But Dotti isn't completely gone — it's just harder to track down. The trick is knowing where and how to look.

In this guide, we'll share the best tools and strategies for finding Dotti in stock, even when supply is tight. These tips work whether you're looking for brand-name Dotti or generic estradiol transdermal patches.

Tip 1: Use Medfinder to Search Pharmacy Inventory

The fastest way to find Dotti in stock is to use Medfinder. Instead of calling pharmacy after pharmacy, Medfinder lets you search for Dotti availability across pharmacies in your area — all in one place.

Here's how it works:

1. Go to medfinder.com
2. Search for "Dotti" or "estradiol patch"
3. Enter your zip code
4. See which pharmacies near you have it in stock

It's free, and it can save you hours of phone calls. Medfinder is especially useful during shortages when availability changes day to day.

Tip 2: Try Independent and Compounding Pharmacies

When there's a shortage, big chain pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid) often run out first. They serve the most patients and burn through their allocations quickly.

Independent pharmacies are often your best bet during a shortage. Here's why:

• They may order from different wholesalers than the chains
• They typically have smaller patient populations, so stock lasts longer
• They're more likely to go the extra mile to help you track down your medication
• Some compounding pharmacies can prepare custom estradiol formulations if patches aren't available

Don't know any independent pharmacies near you? A quick search for "independent pharmacy near me" or checking your state's pharmacy association directory can help. You can also use our guide on checking pharmacy stock for more detailed steps.

Tip 3: Time Your Refills Strategically

Pharmacies typically receive shipments from wholesalers on specific days — often early in the week (Monday through Wednesday). Calling or checking availability right after a shipment arrives gives you the best shot.

Other timing tips:

• Refill early. Don't wait until your last patch. Start looking 7 to 10 days before you need your refill.
• Call in the morning. Pharmacy staff have more time to check inventory and help you before the afternoon rush.
• Ask about expected shipments. If a pharmacy is out, ask when they expect their next delivery. You may be able to reserve your prescription.

More Strategies That Work

Ask Your Pharmacist to Check Other Locations

If your pharmacy is part of a chain, the pharmacist can often check inventory at other locations in the same chain. They may also be able to transfer your prescription to a store that has Dotti in stock.

Consider Mail-Order Pharmacy

Mail-order pharmacies and online services like Amazon Pharmacy, Costco Pharmacy, and specialty mail-order pharmacies sometimes have stock when local pharmacies don't. If your insurance covers mail-order, this can be a convenient backup option.

Ask Your Doctor About Dose Flexibility

If your specific Dotti strength (say, 0.05 mg/day) is unavailable, your doctor might be able to adjust your prescription to a strength that is in stock. For example, two 0.025 mg patches could substitute for one 0.05 mg patch in some cases. Always consult your doctor before making any changes.

Look Into Alternative Estradiol Products

If you simply can't find any Dotti patches, other products deliver the same medication. Climara, generic estradiol patches, EstroGel, and Divigel are all options your doctor can consider. Switching formulations is common during shortages and usually straightforward.

What If You Still Can't Find Dotti?

If you've tried everything and still can't fill your prescription, here are a few more steps:

• Contact Amneal Pharmaceuticals directly. The manufacturer may have information about when supply will improve or which distributors have stock. They also have a Patient Assistance Program that may help.
• Talk to your doctor urgently. If you're completely out of estradiol patches, your doctor needs to know. Abruptly stopping HRT can cause rebound symptoms. Your doctor can prescribe a temporary bridge — such as oral estradiol or estradiol cream — to keep you covered until patches are available.
• Report the shortage. You can report drug shortages to the FDA at drugshortages@fda.hhs.gov. Patient reports help the FDA prioritize its response.

Final Thoughts

Finding Dotti during the 2026 shortage is frustrating, but it's not impossible. Using tools like Medfinder, trying independent pharmacies, and timing your refills strategically can make a real difference.

The most important thing is to start looking early and stay in communication with your doctor and pharmacist. They're your best allies in making sure your hormone therapy doesn't get interrupted.

For more on the current shortage, read our Dotti shortage update for 2026.