Is Latisse in shortage in 2026? Get the latest update on Latisse availability, why it's hard to find, current pricing, and how to get your prescription filled.
If you've been trying to fill your Latisse prescription and can't find it, you might be wondering: is there a Latisse shortage? The short answer is no — Latisse is not on the FDA's official drug shortage list as of early 2026. However, many patients are still having trouble finding it at their local pharmacy, and there are real reasons for that.
In this article, we'll explain the current state of Latisse availability, why it can be hard to find even without a formal shortage, what it costs in 2026, and what you can do to get your prescription filled.
Yes, for many patients it is. Even though Latisse isn't in a formal shortage, its unique position as a cosmetic prescription product creates availability challenges that most other medications don't face.
Latisse (Bimatoprost 0.03%) is the only FDA-approved prescription treatment for eyelash hypotrichosis — inadequate or not enough eyelashes. It's manufactured by AbbVie (formerly Allergan) and has been on the market since its initial FDA approval in 2001.
Unlike medications for chronic diseases, Latisse doesn't have the consistent, high-volume demand that drives pharmacies to keep it in regular stock. For a full explanation of why this happens, read our article on why Latisse is so hard to find.
Several factors contribute to the ongoing availability issues:
Most chain pharmacies prioritize stocking medications with high, predictable demand. Latisse, as a cosmetic product, doesn't meet that threshold at many locations. Many pharmacies simply don't carry it at all.
A significant portion of Latisse is distributed through dermatology offices, plastic surgery clinics, and medical spas rather than retail pharmacies. This means the traditional pharmacy supply chain isn't always set up to provide it.
Since most insurance plans don't cover Latisse (it's considered cosmetic), there's less incentive for pharmacies to stock it. Patients paying out of pocket represent a smaller, less predictable market.
Interest in eyelash enhancement treatments has been growing steadily. More patients are seeking prescriptions for Latisse and similar products, which can create localized stock issues.
Cost remains a significant factor for many patients. Here's what you can expect to pay:
For a complete guide to saving on this medication, see our article on how to save money on Latisse.
The biggest development for patients in recent years has been the availability of generic Bimatoprost 0.03%. This gives patients access to the same active ingredient as Latisse at a significantly lower cost. Generic versions are also more widely stocked at pharmacies.
Additionally, telehealth services have made getting a Latisse prescription more convenient than ever. Several platforms offer virtual consultations with dermatologists or other licensed prescribers and can ship Bimatoprost directly to your home. Read more about finding a doctor who prescribes Latisse.
For patients who want to explore non-prescription options, OTC eyelash serums like RevitaLash and GrandeLASH-MD continue to be popular, though they don't offer the same clinically proven results as Bimatoprost. See our guide to Latisse alternatives for details.
If you need to fill your Latisse prescription, here are the most effective strategies:
For a complete walkthrough, check out our guide on how to find Latisse in stock near you.
While Latisse is not in a formal shortage, the reality is that finding it at a retail pharmacy can still be challenging. The combination of limited pharmacy stocking, cosmetic classification, and insurance exclusions creates a unique availability landscape for this medication.
The good news is that with generic Bimatoprost, telehealth options, and tools like Medfinder, patients in 2026 have more ways than ever to access this treatment. Don't let availability frustrations keep you from getting the care you need — explore your options and talk to your provider about the best path forward.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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