Finding Pegasys Right Now Isn't Easy — But It's Not Impossible

If you've been calling pharmacy after pharmacy trying to fill your Pegasys (Peginterferon Alfa-2a) prescription, you know the drill: "We're out of stock." "We don't know when we'll get more." "Try calling back next week."

With Pegasys in an active drug shortage since late 2024, finding this specialty injectable has become a real challenge. But patients are still filling their prescriptions — you just need the right approach.

Here are three proven strategies to help you find Pegasys in stock.

Tip 1: Use Medfinder to Check Real-Time Pharmacy Stock

Instead of calling pharmacies one by one, use Medfinder — a free tool that checks real-time stock levels at pharmacies across the country. Simply enter "Pegasys" and your zip code, and you'll see which pharmacies near you currently have it available or can order it.

This alone can save you hours of frustrating phone calls. Medfinder updates its data regularly, so you get the most current picture of availability in your area.

Tip 2: Try Independent and Specialty Pharmacies

During drug shortages, the big chain pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid) tend to run out first because they serve the most patients. Independent pharmacies and specialty pharmacies often have access to different wholesale distributors and may still have Pegasys on their shelves.

Here's why this matters for Pegasys specifically:

• Pegasys is a refrigerated specialty injectable, so not every pharmacy stocks it to begin with
• Specialty pharmacies that focus on hepatology, oncology, or hematology are more likely to carry it
• Some independent pharmacies can special-order from distributors that chain pharmacies don't use

Ask your prescribing doctor if they have a relationship with a specialty pharmacy. Many hematology and hepatology practices work directly with specific pharmacies and can facilitate orders.

Tip 3: Call During Off-Peak Hours and Be Persistent

Pharmacy restocking often happens in the early morning, so calling first thing (before 9 AM) can increase your chances of catching new inventory. Some tips:

• Call early in the week — deliveries often come Monday through Wednesday
• Ask the pharmacist to check their wholesaler — even if it's not on the shelf, they may be able to order it
• Leave your name and number — many pharmacies will call you when stock arrives
• Check back weekly — supply during shortages comes and goes in waves

What If You Still Can't Find Pegasys?

If you've tried everything and still can't locate Pegasys, don't skip doses without talking to your doctor. Here are your next steps:

Ask Your Doctor About Alternatives

Depending on why you take Pegasys, there may be suitable alternatives. For polycythemia vera, BESREMi (Ropeginterferon Alfa-2b) is an FDA-approved option that the NCCN now recommends as a direct substitute during the shortage. For hepatitis C, direct-acting antivirals like Epclusa, Harvoni, or Mavyret have largely replaced interferon-based therapy and may be more effective.

Contact the Manufacturer

pharma& GmbH, the current manufacturer of Pegasys, has a patient assistance line: 855-443-7028. They may be able to help you locate supply or provide financial assistance.

Look Into Patient Assistance Programs

If cost is also a factor (Pegasys costs roughly $4,300 per month without insurance), patient assistance programs through NeedyMeds, RxAssist, or the manufacturer may help reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

Final Thoughts

Finding Pegasys during a shortage takes patience and the right tools. Start with Medfinder to check real-time availability, branch out to specialty pharmacies, and stay in close contact with your healthcare team. The shortage won't last forever, but in the meantime, being proactive is your best bet.

For more background on why this shortage is happening, read our explainer: Why is Pegasys so hard to find?