Your Patient Chose Phexx — Now Help Them Actually Get It

You've had the conversation with your patient. They want hormone-free, on-demand contraception. Phexx is the right fit. You write the prescription — and then your patient calls back a few days later saying their pharmacy doesn't have it, can't order it, or has never heard of it.

This scenario is more common than it should be. Phexx (lactic acid, citric acid, and potassium bitartrate vaginal gel) is the only FDA-approved hormone-free on-demand prescription contraceptive gel, and its specialty status means many retail pharmacies don't stock it routinely. As a prescriber, you can take a few proactive steps to help your patients navigate this challenge.

Current Phexx Availability

As of early 2026, Phexx is not in shortage according to the FDA. Evofem Biosciences continues to manufacture and distribute the product. The availability gap exists primarily at the pharmacy shelf level:

• Chain pharmacies often don't stock low-volume specialty products like Phexx
• Independent pharmacies are generally more flexible but may need to order it
• Most pharmacies can procure Phexx within 1-3 business days if they order it

The challenge is not supply — it's stocking and awareness.

Why Patients Can't Find Phexx

Understanding the barriers helps you address them proactively:

1. Volume-based stocking: Chain pharmacies use automated inventory systems that prioritize high-volume drugs. Phexx may not meet the threshold for automatic stocking at many locations.
2. Staff unfamiliarity: As a first-in-class product, Phexx may not be recognized by all pharmacy staff, leading to confusion or the patient being told it's unavailable.
3. Insurance friction: Even though ACA mandates $0-copay coverage for FDA-approved contraceptives, some plans require prior authorization or step therapy, creating delays.
4. Patient frustration: After one failed pharmacy visit, many patients give up rather than trying other options — especially if they feel their provider isn't aware of the access issue.

What Providers Can Do: 5 Actionable Steps

Step 1: Identify Pharmacies With Phexx Stock Before Prescribing

Before sending a prescription, check which pharmacies near your patient have Phexx available. Medfinder for Providers allows you or your staff to search pharmacy stock by location. Sending the prescription to a pharmacy that already has Phexx on the shelf eliminates the most common barrier.

Step 2: Include the NDC on the Prescription

Adding the NDC number (69751-101-12) to the prescription or providing it to your patient helps pharmacy staff locate the product in their ordering system quickly. This small step can prevent delays caused by unfamiliarity.

Step 3: Educate Your Patient on What to Expect

Set expectations during the visit:

• "Not all pharmacies carry Phexx — you may need to call ahead or try a different pharmacy."
• "If your pharmacy doesn't have it, they can usually order it within a few days."
• "You can also get Phexx delivered to your home through telehealth at phexx.com."

Providing this guidance upfront prevents the frustration cycle that leads to patients abandoning the prescription.

Step 4: Have a Backup Pharmacy Recommendation

Keep a short list of pharmacies in your area that regularly stock Phexx. Independent pharmacies and specialty pharmacies are good candidates. Ask your pharmaceutical rep or check with Evofem directly for local stocking data.

Step 5: Assist With Prior Authorization if Needed

If a patient's insurance requires prior authorization for Phexx, submit it proactively rather than waiting for the pharmacy to flag it. Under the ACA, FDA-approved contraceptives should be covered without cost-sharing, but enforcement varies. Having your staff handle the PA upfront saves the patient time and frustration.

Alternatives When Phexx Is Not Accessible

While working to fill the Phexx prescription, some patients may need an interim contraceptive option. Non-hormonal alternatives include:

• Copper IUD (Paragard): Long-acting, >99% effective, hormone-free. Requires office placement.
• Condoms: Widely available, also protect against STIs. 87% effective with typical use.
• Diaphragm with spermicide (Caya): Reusable barrier method, ~83% effective with typical use.
• OTC spermicides: Available without prescription but less effective (~79%) and may cause irritation.

For a patient-facing resource, direct them to our alternatives to Phexx guide.

Workflow Tips for Your Practice

Integrating Phexx access support into your practice workflow doesn't have to be complicated:

For Front Office / MA Staff

• Keep the Medfinder provider link bookmarked: medfinder.com/providers
• Maintain a list of 2-3 local pharmacies known to stock Phexx
• Include the NDC (69751-101-12) in prescription templates

For Prescribers

• Discuss pharmacy access during the contraceptive counseling visit
• Document pharmacy preference in the patient chart
• Be prepared to submit prior authorization proactively

For Patient Education

• Provide patients with the phexx.com website for telehealth and savings information
• Share the Medfinder patient guide for self-service pharmacy searching
• Remind patients that Phexx should be covered at $0 under most insurance plans

Final Thoughts

Prescribing Phexx is the first step. Helping your patient actually fill the prescription is what closes the loop. By proactively identifying pharmacies with stock, setting patient expectations, and leveraging tools like Medfinder for Providers, you can significantly reduce the access friction that leads to patient frustration and prescription abandonment.

For the latest on Phexx availability, see our provider shortage briefing. And for cost-related questions from patients, point them to our guide on saving money on Phexx.