Is Kesimpta in Shortage in 2026?

If you're having trouble getting your Kesimpta (Ofatumumab) prescription filled, you're probably wondering: is there an actual shortage? The short answer is no — as of early 2026, the FDA has not listed Kesimpta on its official drug shortage database.

But that doesn't mean it's easy to find. Many patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis report frustrating delays in accessing Kesimpta, and those delays can feel a lot like a shortage when you're waiting for a medication you need to stay healthy. Let's break down what's actually going on.

Why Is Kesimpta Hard to Find?

Even without a formal shortage, several factors make Kesimpta difficult to access:

Specialty Pharmacy Distribution

Kesimpta is a biologic medication that must be stored at 36°F to 46°F and handled through cold-chain logistics. It's not stocked at standard retail pharmacies. Instead, it's dispensed through specialty pharmacies — a smaller network of pharmacies equipped to handle complex biologics. If you're looking for Kesimpta at your local drugstore, you won't find it there.

Insurance Barriers

Most insurance plans require prior authorization for Kesimpta, and many also impose step therapy requirements, meaning you may need to try and fail on a less expensive MS therapy before Kesimpta is approved. These processes can take days to weeks, creating gaps between when you need the medication and when you can actually get it.

High Cost

At a list price of approximately $6,800 to $7,500 per monthly injection — roughly $82,000 to $90,000 per year — Kesimpta is one of the more expensive MS therapies. Pharmacies and distributors are cautious about carrying inventory without confirmed insurance coverage, which can slow the fulfillment process.

Growing Demand

Kesimpta has been gaining market share since its FDA approval in 2020, as more neurologists prescribe it for its combination of high efficacy and at-home convenience. Increased demand for any specialty biologic can create periodic tightness in the supply chain, even when no formal shortage exists.

What Does Kesimpta Cost in 2026?

Here's a breakdown of Kesimpta costs:

• List price: Approximately $6,800–$7,500 per monthly dose
• Annual cost without insurance: $82,000–$90,000
• With commercial insurance + Kesimpta Access Card: $0 out of pocket for 97% of patients (up to $18,000/year in copay assistance)
• Medicare/Medicaid: Coverage varies by plan; the Kesimpta Access Card is not valid for government insurance programs

For a detailed breakdown of savings options, see our guide on how to save money on Kesimpta in 2026.

Are There New Options for MS Patients in 2026?

The MS treatment landscape continues to evolve. While Kesimpta remains a leading option for relapsing MS, patients should be aware of the full range of available therapies:

• Ocrevus (Ocrelizumab): The other anti-CD20 therapy, given as an IV infusion every 6 months. Works by the same mechanism as Kesimpta.
• Tysabri (Natalizumab): A highly effective monthly infusion or subcutaneous injection for relapsing MS.
• Mavenclad (Cladribine): An oral therapy given in short courses over 2 years with long-lasting effects.
• Aubagio (Teriflunomide): A daily oral pill with moderate efficacy — less effective than Kesimpta but easier to access.

For a deeper comparison, read our guide on alternatives to Kesimpta.

How to Find Kesimpta in Stock

If you need to locate Kesimpta, here are the most effective steps:

1. Use Medfinder to search for specialty pharmacies with Kesimpta availability in your area.
2. Contact your insurance company to identify in-network specialty pharmacies.
3. Work with your neurologist's office — they can often expedite the specialty pharmacy process and prior authorization paperwork.
4. Enroll in the Kesimpta Access Card at start.kesimpta.com for copay assistance and support navigating the access process.
5. Call the Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation at 1-800-277-2254 if you're uninsured or underinsured.

For more detailed tips, see our guide on how to find Kesimpta in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

While there is no official Kesimpta shortage in 2026, the challenges of accessing this specialty biologic are very real for many MS patients. The combination of specialty pharmacy distribution, insurance hurdles, and high costs can create delays that feel like a shortage — even when supply is technically adequate.

The most important thing you can do is stay proactive: start the prior authorization process early, use tools like Medfinder to track availability, and take advantage of financial assistance programs. If delays become dangerous for your health, talk to your neurologist immediately about alternative treatment options to avoid gaps in your MS care.