Isentress Shortage Update: What Patients Need to Know in 2026

If you take Isentress (Raltegravir) for HIV treatment and have had trouble finding it at your pharmacy, you're probably wondering: is there an actual shortage? In this article, we'll give you the latest update on Isentress availability, explain why the drug can be difficult to find, and share practical tips for getting your medication without interruption.

Is Isentress Still in Shortage in 2026?

As of early 2026, Isentress is not officially listed on the FDA or ASHP (American Society of Health-System Pharmacists) drug shortage lists. This means there is no widespread manufacturing shortage of Raltegravir.

However, that doesn't mean every pharmacy has it on the shelf. Many patients report difficulty finding Isentress at their local pharmacy, and there are real reasons for this — even without an official shortage designation.

Why Is Isentress Hard to Find?

Several factors contribute to Isentress being difficult to locate at pharmacies in 2026:

It's a Specialty Medication

Isentress is a brand-name HIV medication with a retail price of $1,900 to $2,500 per month. Most retail pharmacies don't stock expensive specialty drugs unless they have patients who regularly fill them. If your pharmacy doesn't have other Isentress patients, they probably don't keep it in inventory.

No Generic Widely Available

While Lupin Ltd received FDA approval for generic Raltegravir in May 2025, the generic is not yet widely available at pharmacies across the United States. Until generic competition ramps up, the supply depends primarily on Merck's brand-name production.

Insurance and Authorization Barriers

Some insurance plans require prior authorization or place Isentress on a specialty tier, which adds processing time. A pharmacy may have stock but can't dispense until insurance approval comes through, creating the appearance of unavailability.

Distribution Patterns

Wholesaler allocation and regional distribution can cause temporary stock-outs at individual pharmacies even when the national supply is adequate. This is especially common at smaller retail locations.

How Much Does Isentress Cost in 2026?

Understanding the cost landscape can help you plan:

• Cash price (no insurance): Approximately $1,900 to $2,500 for a 30-day supply of Isentress 400 mg tablets
• With insurance: Copays vary widely depending on your plan and tier placement. Some patients pay $0 to $75 per month with commercial insurance; others on high-deductible plans may pay significantly more
• Merck copay card: Eligible commercially insured patients can save up to $6,800 per year on Isentress
• Patient assistance: Merck's Patient Assistance Program provides Isentress free of charge to qualifying uninsured patients through merckhelps.com
• ADAP coverage: Most state AIDS Drug Assistance Programs (ADAP) cover Isentress for eligible patients

For a complete breakdown of savings options, see our guide on how to save money on Isentress.

Are There New Options for Patients in 2026?

Yes. The HIV treatment landscape continues to evolve, and patients have more choices than ever:

• Potential generic Raltegravir: With Lupin's FDA approval in hand, a generic version of Isentress may become more widely available in 2026, which could improve supply and lower costs
• Newer integrase inhibitors: Medications like Dolutegravir (Tivicay) and Bictegravir (in Biktarvy) are widely available, often easier to find, and recommended as preferred first-line options
• Long-acting injectables: Cabenuva (Cabotegravir + Rilpivirine) offers a monthly or every-two-month injection option, eliminating the need for daily pills entirely

Read more about these options in our article on alternatives to Isentress.

How to Find Isentress in Stock

If you need to find Isentress right now, here are the most effective strategies:

1. Use Medfinder

Medfinder checks real-time pharmacy inventory so you can see which pharmacies near you have Isentress available. It's the fastest way to find stock without calling around.

2. Try Specialty Pharmacies

Specialty pharmacies that focus on HIV medications are much more likely to have Isentress in stock. Ask your doctor or clinic for a referral to a specialty pharmacy in your area.

3. Contact Merck's SUPPORT Program

Merck's SUPPORT Program can help you locate pharmacies with Isentress and navigate insurance issues. Visit merckhelps.com or call the number on your Isentress prescription label.

4. Request an Emergency Supply

If you're running out, most states allow pharmacists to dispense an emergency supply of maintenance medications. Ask your pharmacist about this option while you work on getting a full refill.

For more detailed tips, read our full guide on how to find Isentress in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

While Isentress is not in an official shortage in 2026, real-world availability challenges persist for many patients. The combination of limited pharmacy stocking, no widely available generic, and insurance barriers can make it feel like the drug is in short supply.

The most important thing you can do is plan ahead. Start your refill process early, use tools like Medfinder to check pharmacy stock, and stay in close communication with your healthcare provider. Never skip doses of your HIV medication — if you're having trouble finding Isentress, talk to your doctor about your options.