Finding Podofilox Shouldn't Be This Hard

You have a prescription for Podofilox (Condylox) to treat your genital warts, and now you need to actually fill it. But pharmacy after pharmacy tells you the same thing: "We don't have it in stock." Maybe they can order it. Maybe not. Maybe next week. Maybe never.

It's a frustrating experience, especially when you're dealing with a condition that's already stressful enough. The good news? There are practical strategies to find Podofilox faster, without spending hours on the phone. Here's how.

Tip 1: Use Medfinder to Check Real-Time Stock

The fastest way to find Podofilox in stock is to skip the phone calls entirely and use a real-time pharmacy availability tool.

Medfinder lets you search for Podofilox and instantly see which pharmacies near your zip code have it available — right now. No calling, no guessing, no driving to a pharmacy only to be turned away.

Here's how it works:

1. Go to Medfinder.com
2. Type in "Podofilox" or "Condylox"
3. Enter your zip code
4. See a list of pharmacies with current stock information

It's free to use and can save you significant time and frustration. Many patients find stock at pharmacies they wouldn't have thought to check on their own.

Tip 2: Try Independent and Specialty Pharmacies

When the big chain pharmacies are all out of Podofilox, independent pharmacies are often your best bet. Here's why:

• Different wholesalers: Independent pharmacies often source from different distributors than large chains. If CVS and Walgreens are both out (because they share similar supply networks), an independent pharmacy down the street might have it.
• More flexibility: Independent pharmacists can sometimes source medications from secondary wholesalers or make special orders more easily.
• Compounding pharmacies: In some cases, a compounding pharmacy can prepare a Podofilox formulation if the commercial product is unavailable. Ask your doctor if this is appropriate for your prescription.

To find independent pharmacies near you, try searching "independent pharmacy near me" or check Medfinder — it includes independent pharmacies in its results.

Tip 3: Call During Off-Peak Hours and Ask the Right Questions

If you do need to call pharmacies directly, timing and technique matter:

• Call early in the morning (right when they open) or during midday lulls. Avoid Monday mornings and Friday afternoons when pharmacies are busiest.
• Ask specifically: "Do you currently have Podofilox 0.5% topical solution or gel in stock?" Being specific about the formulation helps the pharmacist check quickly.
• Ask about ordering: If they don't have it, ask: "Can you order it from your wholesaler? How long would that take?" Sometimes it's just a day or two.
• Ask about other locations: Chain pharmacies can often check stock at sister stores. Ask them to look within a 20-30 mile radius.

What If You Still Can't Find Podofilox?

If you've tried the steps above and Podofilox is still nowhere to be found, don't give up. Here are additional options:

Talk to Your Doctor About Alternatives

Several other treatments exist for external genital warts. Imiquimod (Aldara, Zyclara) is an immune-boosting cream that patients apply at home. Sinecatechins (Veregen) is a botanical ointment option. Your provider may also suggest in-office treatments like cryotherapy or trichloroacetic acid (TCA). Learn more in our guide to Podofilox alternatives.

Consider Mail-Order or Online Pharmacies

Mail-order pharmacies sometimes have access to medications that local pharmacies don't. If you have insurance, check whether your plan offers a mail-order option. Some online pharmacies may also carry Podofilox and can ship it to your door.

Ask About Transferring Your Prescription

If you find Podofilox at a pharmacy that's not your usual one, most pharmacies can transfer your prescription electronically. Your doctor can also send a new prescription to whichever pharmacy has it in stock.

Check Back Regularly

Pharmacy stock changes frequently. A pharmacy that was out of Podofilox on Monday may have it by Thursday. If you've found a pharmacy that says they're expecting a shipment, ask when and follow up.

A Note About Cost

Once you find Podofilox in stock, you may be hit with sticker shock. Without insurance, Podofilox can cost anywhere from $80 to $250+ for a generic, and up to $500 for brand-name Condylox. Before you fill your prescription, check out our guide on how to save money on Podofilox for coupons, discount cards, and patient assistance options.

Final Thoughts

Finding Podofilox in stock takes some effort in 2026, but it's doable. Start with Medfinder to check real-time availability, branch out to independent pharmacies, and don't hesitate to work with your healthcare provider on a backup plan.

The most important thing is that you get treated. Genital warts are treatable, and you shouldn't have to put your health on hold because of a supply issue. For more information about the current shortage situation, read our Podofilox shortage update.