Insulin Degludec Shortage: 2026 Status Update

The shortage of Insulin Degludec (Tresiba) has been one of the most impactful insulin supply issues in recent years. As of early 2026, patients across the country continue to report difficulty filling their prescriptions. Here's what we know right now and what you can do to protect your health.

Current Shortage Status (February 2026)

Insulin Degludec remains in intermittent short supply at many retail pharmacies across the United States. The shortage primarily affects the Tresiba FlexTouch U-200 formulation, though U-100 has also experienced periodic stockouts. Novo Nordisk, the sole manufacturer, has acknowledged supply constraints and stated that production is being ramped up.

The FDA Drug Shortages database lists insulin products as "currently in shortage" or "resolved" on a rolling basis. We recommend checking the FDA Drug Shortage Database for the most current official status.

What's Causing the Shortage?

Several factors are contributing to the ongoing Insulin Degludec shortage:

Increased Demand

The Inflation Reduction Act's $35 insulin cap for Medicare Part D enrollees has been a game-changer for affordability — but it's also driven a significant increase in utilization. Patients who previously rationed insulin or used cheaper alternatives are now able to access Insulin Degludec. Many commercial insurers have adopted similar caps, further boosting demand.

Single Manufacturer

Unlike Insulin Glargine, which has multiple manufacturers and biosimilars, Insulin Degludec is produced exclusively by Novo Nordisk. There is no biosimilar or generic alternative on the market. This single-source dependency means any production hiccup has an outsized impact on supply.

Manufacturing Scale-Up Takes Time

Insulin is a complex biologic that requires specialized manufacturing facilities. Expanding production capacity takes years of planning, construction, and regulatory approval. Novo Nordisk has invested billions in new manufacturing sites, but these facilities take time to come online.

Distribution Variability

Even when total national supply is adequate, distribution isn't always even. Some regions and pharmacy chains receive more stock than others, creating pockets of shortage even when the national picture looks better.

How Long Will the Shortage Last?

Based on Novo Nordisk's public statements and manufacturing expansion plans, supply is expected to gradually improve throughout 2026. However, intermittent local shortages may continue, especially for the U-200 formulation. Full normalization of supply may not occur until Novo Nordisk's new manufacturing capacity is fully operational.

What You Should Do Right Now

1. Don't Wait Until You're Out

Refill your prescription as soon as your insurance allows. Most plans permit refills when you've used 75-80% of your current supply. Early refills reduce your risk of being caught without insulin during a stockout.

2. Check Stock Before You Go

Use MedFinder to check which pharmacies near you have Insulin Degludec in stock. This can save you time and frustration. See our full guide: How to Find Insulin Degludec in Stock Near You.

3. Consider Both Concentrations

If Tresiba U-200 is unavailable, the U-100 may still be in stock (or vice versa). Both formulations contain the same insulin — they just differ in concentration. Your doctor and pharmacist can help you make the switch.

4. Explore Mail-Order Options

Mail-order pharmacies frequently have better supply of specialty medications like Insulin Degludec. Check with your insurance plan's preferred mail-order pharmacy.

5. Have a Backup Plan

Talk to your doctor about a contingency plan in case Insulin Degludec becomes completely unavailable in your area. Knowing which alternative basal insulin you'd switch to — and at what dose — can save critical time in an emergency. See Alternatives to Insulin Degludec.

6. Report Shortages

You can report drug shortages to the FDA through their Drug Shortage Reporting page. Reports from patients help the FDA track the scope and impact of shortages.

Financial Help During the Shortage

If the shortage is pushing you to fill at pharmacies with higher prices, explore savings options. Novo Nordisk's Insulin Value Program caps out-of-pocket costs at $35 for cash-paying patients. NovoCare also offers a patient assistance program for uninsured or underinsured patients. For more details, read our guide: How to Save Money on Insulin Degludec in 2026.

Timeline of the Insulin Degludec Shortage

• Mid-2024: Early reports of spot shortages at retail pharmacies, primarily U-200
• Late 2024: Shortage becomes more widespread; Novo Nordisk acknowledges supply constraints
• 2025: Intermittent shortages continue nationwide; FDA adds Tresiba to Drug Shortages list periodically
• Early 2026: Supply improving but still inconsistent; U-100 generally more available than U-200

Key Takeaways

• Insulin Degludec (Tresiba) remains in intermittent short supply as of early 2026.
• The shortage is driven by high demand, single-source manufacturing, and production scale-up timelines.
• Refill early, use MedFinder to check stock, and have a backup plan with your doctor.
• Supply is expected to gradually improve throughout 2026.
• Never skip basal insulin — contact your doctor if you can't find Insulin Degludec.