How to Find Oseltamivir in Stock Near You

You have the flu. Your doctor prescribed Oseltamivir (generic Tamiflu). But your pharmacy says they're out of stock. Now what?

During the severe 2025–2026 flu season, finding Oseltamivir has become a real challenge. But it's not impossible. This guide walks you through the best tools and strategies to locate a pharmacy that has it right now.

Step 1: Use MedFinder to Search Pharmacies Near You

The fastest way to check Oseltamivir availability is to use MedFinder. It searches pharmacy inventory in real time so you can see which locations near you currently have Oseltamivir in stock — before you drive there or call around.

Simply enter "Oseltamivir" or "Tamiflu," add your zip code, and you'll see a list of pharmacies with current availability.

Step 2: Call Pharmacies Directly

If you prefer to call, here's the most efficient approach:

• Start with independent pharmacies. They often have different suppliers than chain pharmacies and may have stock when CVS, Walgreens, or Rite Aid don't.
• Try grocery store pharmacies. Pharmacies inside Kroger, H-E-B, Publix, and similar stores are sometimes overlooked and may still have supply.
• Call early in the day. Pharmacies receive deliveries in the morning. Calling early gives you the best chance of catching new stock.
• Ask about all forms. If 75 mg capsules are out, ask about 30 mg or 45 mg capsules. Your pharmacist can adjust the quantity to match your prescribed dose.

Step 3: Ask About the Oral Suspension

Oseltamivir comes in both capsule and liquid (oral suspension) forms. Sometimes one form is available when the other isn't. If capsules are out of stock, ask your pharmacist about the suspension — or vice versa.

Pharmacists can also compound Oseltamivir from capsules into a liquid if needed for children. The FDA and CDC have published guidance on this option during shortage periods.

Step 4: Expand Your Search Radius

Don't limit yourself to the closest pharmacy. If you're in a metro area, pharmacies just 10–15 minutes away may have completely different stock levels. In rural areas, it may be worth calling pharmacies in the next town over.

MedFinder lets you expand your search radius to see availability across a wider area.

Step 5: Consider Mail-Order and Online Pharmacies

Some online pharmacies may have Oseltamivir in stock when local pharmacies don't. Options include:

• Amazon Pharmacy
• Cost Plus Drugs
• Your insurance plan's mail-order pharmacy

Important: Shipping times matter. Oseltamivir works best when started within 48 hours of symptoms. If shipping will take more than a day, a local pharmacy is the better bet.

Step 6: Talk to Your Doctor About Alternatives

If you truly can't find Oseltamivir anywhere, don't wait. Contact your prescriber and ask about alternative flu antivirals such as:

• Baloxavir (Xofluza) — a single-dose oral tablet
• Zanamivir (Relenza) — an inhaled medication
• Peramivir (Rapivab) — an IV infusion given in a clinic or hospital

These alternatives may be more readily available during the Oseltamivir shortage.

Step 7: Use Coupons to Save If You Find It

When you do find Oseltamivir, the price can vary significantly between pharmacies. Generic Oseltamivir ranges from about $25 to $55 with a coupon, but some pharmacies charge over $150 at full cash price.

Check our guide on how to save money on Oseltamivir for coupon tips and discount programs.

What NOT to Do

• Don't stockpile. Buying extra Oseltamivir "just in case" worsens the shortage for people who need it now.
• Don't wait too long. Every hour counts. Oseltamivir is most effective within 48 hours of symptoms.
• Don't take someone else's leftover medication. Dosing varies by age and weight, and expired medication may not work.

Stay Updated

The supply situation changes daily. Bookmark MedFinder and check regularly. For the latest on the shortage, read our Oseltamivir shortage update for 2026.