How to Find Nitro-Bid in Stock Near You

Finding Nitro-Bid (Nitroglycerin 2% ointment) can feel like a scavenger hunt. With the brand discontinued and only a few generic manufacturers producing this medication, it is not always sitting on pharmacy shelves. But with the right approach and tools, you can track it down.

This guide walks you through step-by-step methods to find Nitro-Bid or its generic equivalent near you.

Step 1: Understand What You Are Looking For

When you search for Nitro-Bid, pharmacies may list it under different names:

• Nitro-Bid
• Nitroglycerin ointment 2%
• Nitroglycerin topical ointment
• NTG ointment

All of these refer to the same product — a 2% Nitroglycerin ointment applied to the skin to prevent angina. If you are not sure what Nitro-Bid is, read our overview: What is Nitro-Bid? Uses, dosage, and what you need to know.

Step 2: Use MedFinder to Search Pharmacies

The fastest way to find Nitro-Bid in stock is to use MedFinder. MedFinder lets you search for a medication and see which pharmacies near you currently have it available. Instead of calling pharmacy after pharmacy, you can check availability in one place.

Here is how to use it:

1. Go to medfinder.com
2. Type "Nitro-Bid" or "Nitroglycerin ointment" in the search bar
3. Enter your zip code or allow location access
4. Browse the list of pharmacies with current stock

This tool is free and can save you a lot of time and frustration.

Step 3: Call Pharmacies Directly

If MedFinder does not show results in your area, or you want to double-check, calling pharmacies directly is your next best option. Here are some tips to make your calls more effective:

• Ask for the pharmacy technician or pharmacist. They can check real-time inventory faster than front-end staff.
• Use the generic name. Ask for "Nitroglycerin 2% ointment" rather than "Nitro-Bid" since the brand is discontinued.
• Ask if they can order it. Even if the pharmacy does not have it on the shelf, they may be able to get it from their wholesaler in 1-3 business days.
• Try different pharmacy types. Chain pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid), grocery store pharmacies (Kroger, Publix), big-box pharmacies (Walmart, Costco), independent pharmacies, and hospital outpatient pharmacies all have different suppliers and stocking patterns.

Step 4: Check Compounding Pharmacies

Compounding pharmacies can custom-make Nitroglycerin ointment if commercial products are unavailable. This requires a prescription specifically written for compounding. Ask your doctor if this is a good option for you. Compounded medications may cost more, but they can be a lifeline when manufactured products are out of stock.

You can find compounding pharmacies near you through the Professional Compounding Centers of America (PCCA) or by searching online.

Step 5: Ask Your Doctor About a Different Form

If you absolutely cannot find Nitroglycerin ointment, your doctor may switch you to a different dosage form that is more readily available. Common alternatives include:

• Nitroglycerin transdermal patches (Nitro-Dur, Minitran) — worn on the skin, similar concept but more widely available
• Isosorbide Mononitrate (Imdur) — an oral nitrate taken by mouth
• Isosorbide Dinitrate (Isordil) — another oral nitrate option

For a full comparison of your options, see our guide on alternatives to Nitro-Bid.

Step 6: Check for Pharmacy Transfers

If one pharmacy has the medication but is not near you, ask your current pharmacy about a transfer. Many pharmacies can transfer prescriptions electronically. Alternatively, you can ask your doctor to send a new prescription to the pharmacy that has it in stock.

Tips for Staying Ahead of Supply Issues

• Refill early. Do not wait until your last dose to request a refill. Most insurance plans allow refills when you have about a week's supply left.
• Keep your doctor informed. Let your doctor know you are having trouble finding Nitro-Bid. They can help advocate for you or adjust your treatment plan if needed.
• Set up alerts. Some pharmacy apps and services, including MedFinder, can notify you when a medication becomes available.
• Consider mail-order pharmacy. Mail-order pharmacies sometimes have better access to medications that are hard to find locally.

What to Do If You Run Out

If you run out of Nitro-Bid and cannot find a replacement right away, contact your doctor immediately. Do not stop your angina treatment without medical guidance. Your doctor may provide a temporary alternative or a bridge prescription while you locate Nitroglycerin ointment.

Angina can be a serious condition, and going without your prescribed medication could put you at risk. If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or other heart-related symptoms, seek emergency medical care.

The Bottom Line

Finding Nitro-Bid takes some effort in 2026, but it is possible. Start with MedFinder to quickly check pharmacy availability, call around if needed, consider compounding pharmacies, and keep your doctor in the loop. With persistence and the right tools, you can keep your angina treatment on track.

For more background on why this medication is hard to find, read our article: Why is Nitro-Bid so hard to find?