Finding Leucovorin Shouldn't Be This Hard

You've got your prescription, your treatment plan is set, and now you're hearing the words no patient wants to hear: "We don't have it in stock." If you're trying to find Leucovorin (also called Folinic Acid or Leucovorin Calcium), you already know the frustration of dealing with a medication shortage.

Leucovorin has been in and out of shortage since 2008, and as of 2026, both the injectable and oral forms remain difficult to find at many pharmacies. But you're not out of options. In this guide, we'll share practical tools and tips to help you track down Leucovorin — without spending hours on the phone.

Why Is Leucovorin Hard to Find Right Now?

Before we get into solutions, it helps to understand the problem. Leucovorin is manufactured by a small number of generic drug companies. When one or more of them runs into production issues, supply drops quickly. The injectable 500 mg vials have been particularly affected, with manufacturers like Sagent reporting long-term back orders with no estimated release date.

For a deeper look, see our explainer on why Leucovorin is so hard to find in 2026.

3 Tips to Find Leucovorin in Stock

Tip 1: Use Medfinder to Search Real-Time Pharmacy Availability

Medfinder is a free tool that helps you search for pharmacies that have specific medications in stock. Instead of calling dozens of pharmacies one by one, you can search for Leucovorin on Medfinder and see which locations near you currently have it available.

This is especially helpful during a shortage when stock levels change daily. You can search by zip code and compare options in your area — including both chain and independent pharmacies.

For a step-by-step walkthrough, check out our guide on how to check if a pharmacy has Leucovorin in stock.

Tip 2: Call Independent and Specialty Pharmacies

When big chains like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid are out of stock, independent pharmacies and specialty pharmacies may still have supply. Here's why:

• Different distributors: Independent pharmacies often work with regional wholesalers or specialty distributors that chains don't use.
• Specialty oncology pharmacies: These pharmacies focus on cancer medications and may prioritize stocking drugs like Leucovorin for their patient base.
• Compounding pharmacies: In some cases, a compounding pharmacy may be able to prepare Leucovorin in the dosage form you need, though this should be coordinated with your prescriber.

Don't overlook hospital outpatient pharmacies, either. They sometimes have access to institutional supply chains that retail pharmacies don't.

Tip 3: Time Your Search Strategically

Pharmacies typically receive shipments early in the week — often on Monday or Tuesday mornings. If you call or visit during these times, you may have better luck finding freshly stocked medications. Avoid Friday afternoons and weekends when stock may be depleted from the week's dispensing.

If your pharmacy says Leucovorin is on back order, ask them:

• When they expect their next shipment
• Whether they can put you on a notification list
• If they can check stock at sister locations (for chain pharmacies)

What If You Still Can't Find Leucovorin?

If you've exhausted your local options, here are a few more things to try:

Ask About Levoleucovorin

Levoleucovorin (brand names Fusilev and Khapzory) is a closely related medication that can be used interchangeably with Leucovorin at half the dose. It was FDA-approved specifically during a Leucovorin shortage. Talk to your doctor about whether this substitute works for your treatment plan. Read more in our post on alternatives to Leucovorin.

Contact Your Oncologist or Treatment Center

If you receive Leucovorin as part of a chemotherapy regimen (like FOLFOX or FOLFIRI), your oncologist's office or infusion center likely manages their own drug supply. They may already have Leucovorin on hand or be able to source it through hospital procurement channels. Don't hesitate to call them directly.

Look Into Patient Assistance Programs

If cost is also a barrier, programs like Prescription Hope (which offers Wellcovorin for $70/month) and resources listed on NeedyMeds and RxAssist can help. See our complete guide on how to save money on Leucovorin.

Final Thoughts

Finding Leucovorin during a shortage takes persistence, but it's absolutely possible with the right approach. Start with Medfinder to check real-time availability, expand your search to independent and specialty pharmacies, and keep your treatment team in the loop. The sooner you start searching, the better your chances of staying on schedule with your care.

Stay informed with our Leucovorin shortage update for 2026.