Struggling to Find Timolol? You Have Options

If your pharmacist just told you timolol is out of stock — again — take a deep breath. You're one of many patients dealing with this right now. Timolol eye drops, used by millions of Americans to manage glaucoma and ocular hypertension, have been affected by ongoing supply issues in 2025 and 2026.

The good news? There are practical steps you can take right now to track down your medication. In this guide, we'll walk you through the best tools and strategies to find timolol in stock near you.

Tip 1: Use Medfinder to Search Pharmacy Inventory

The fastest way to find timolol is to use Medfinder. Instead of spending your morning calling every pharmacy in town, Medfinder lets you search for pharmacies that currently have timolol in stock — right from your phone or computer.

Here's how it works:

1. Go to medfinder.com
2. Type in "timolol" and your zip code
3. See which pharmacies near you have it available

It's free, fast, and updated regularly. This is especially helpful during a shortage when inventory changes quickly.

Want to learn more about checking pharmacy stock? Read our detailed guide: How to check if a pharmacy has timolol in stock.

Tip 2: Call Independent and Specialty Pharmacies

When big chain pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens run out, independent pharmacies are often your best bet. Here's why:

• Different wholesalers — Independent pharmacies may order from different distributors than the big chains, giving them access to supply the chains can't get.
• Smaller patient base — They serve fewer customers, so their stock may last longer.
• More flexibility — Some independent pharmacies can work with compounding suppliers or order directly from manufacturers.

To find independent pharmacies in your area, try searching "independent pharmacy near me" or check your state's pharmacy association directory.

Don't Forget Specialty Eye Care Pharmacies

Some ophthalmology clinics have their own dispensing pharmacies or work with specialty pharmacies that keep ophthalmic medications like timolol consistently in stock. Ask your eye doctor if they know of one.

Tip 3: Time Your Refills Strategically

Pharmacy inventory tends to get restocked at certain times. Here are a few timing tips:

• Call early in the week — Many pharmacies receive shipments on Monday or Tuesday.
• Go in the morning — You'll beat other patients to newly restocked inventory.
• Refill a few days early — Don't wait until you're completely out. Most insurance plans allow refills when you have about a week's supply left.
• Ask for auto-refill — Some pharmacies will hold stock for patients on auto-refill programs.

What If You Still Can't Find Timolol?

If you've tried everything and still can't locate timolol, here are a few more options:

Ask About a Different Formulation

Timolol comes in three main forms:

• Ophthalmic solution (0.25% or 0.5%) — the most common and most widely available
• Gel-forming solution (generic Timoptic-XE) — currently hardest to find due to Sandoz back orders
• Preservative-free single-dose units (Timoptic in Ocudose) — available but more expensive (around $69–$285)

If you're using the gel-forming version, the standard solution might work for you — though you'll need to apply it twice daily instead of once. Talk to your doctor before making any changes.

Consider Mail-Order Pharmacy

Mail-order pharmacies sometimes have better access to medications that are in short supply at retail pharmacies. Check with your insurance plan to see if they offer mail-order service. Services like Amazon Pharmacy or your insurer's preferred mail-order pharmacy may have timolol available.

Talk to Your Doctor About Alternatives

If the shortage drags on and you're running low, your doctor can prescribe an alternative medication. Options include latanoprost, betaxolol, dorzolamide, or brimonidine. Read more in our article on alternatives to timolol.

How to Save Money When You Do Find Timolol

Generic timolol ophthalmic solution is actually quite affordable — as low as $3.67 with a GoodRx coupon compared to the average retail price of about $35. But if you need the gel-forming or preservative-free version, costs can run significantly higher.

Check out our complete guide to saving money on timolol for coupon cards, discount programs, and patient assistance options.

Final Thoughts

Finding timolol during a shortage takes a little extra effort, but it's absolutely doable. Start with Medfinder to check real-time pharmacy stock, try independent pharmacies, and time your refills strategically. If all else fails, your doctor can help you find an alternative that keeps your eye pressure under control.

Don't let a shortage put your vision at risk. Be proactive, and you'll find a solution.

For more background on why timolol has been hard to find, read: Why is timolol so hard to find?