Likmez Shortage Update: What Patients Need to Know in 2026

If your pharmacy told you Likmez is out of stock or unavailable, you probably want to know: is there an official shortage, and how long will this last? Here is the most current information available about Likmez availability in 2026.

Current Likmez Availability Status (2026)

As of 2026, Likmez (metronidazole oral suspension 500 mg/5 mL) is not listed on the FDA Drug Shortage Database, and the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) has not declared an active shortage of metronidazole oral suspension. This means there is no manufacturer-level production problem or official supply disruption at this time.

However, a "no official shortage" status does not mean Likmez is easy to find at your local pharmacy. Likmez is a brand-name specialty product — FDA-approved in September 2023 — and as a relatively new liquid formulation, it has not yet achieved the widespread pharmacy stocking of generic metronidazole tablets.

Why Patients Are Having Trouble Finding Likmez

Patient reports of difficulty filling Likmez prescriptions are largely due to the following distribution and stocking issues rather than a formal shortage:

• Low stocking priority: Most pharmacies do not routinely stock Likmez because generic metronidazole tablets (which treat the same conditions) are far more commonly prescribed.
• New product distribution: Likmez was approved in late 2023. It takes time for a new specialty product to be incorporated into pharmacy purchasing systems and drug wholesaler distribution networks.
• Insurance barriers: Some insurance plans require prior authorization for Likmez before covering it, slowing prescriptions and reducing pharmacy incentive to keep it in stock.
• Regional distribution gaps: Saptalis Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturer, is a specialty company. Likmez availability may be less consistent in rural areas or regions with fewer specialty-stocked pharmacies.

Historical Context: Metronidazole Shortages

It's worth noting that IV metronidazole (the intravenous form) has experienced periodic shortages in the past, particularly in hospital settings. These shortages were driven by manufacturing issues at specific facilities. Oral metronidazole — both tablets and Likmez suspension — has not been similarly affected because the oral supply chain is separate.

Generic metronidazole tablets remain among the most widely available and inexpensive antibiotics in the US. The availability challenge is specific to Likmez as a brand-name liquid form.

What to Do If You Can't Find Likmez Right Now

If your local pharmacy doesn't have Likmez in stock, here are your best options in 2026:

1. Ask the pharmacy to order it. Many pharmacies can have Likmez ordered through their drug wholesaler within 1-2 business days.
2. Call other pharmacies in your area. Ask specifically for Likmez (metronidazole oral suspension 500 mg/5 mL).
3. Use medfinder. medfinder calls pharmacies near you to check Likmez stock on your behalf and texts you results — no hold times, no repeated phone calls.
4. Talk to your prescriber. If you can take tablets, generic metronidazole is widely available and clinically equivalent. For patients who truly need liquid form, a compounding pharmacy can prepare it.

How to Monitor Likmez Availability Going Forward

To stay informed about any changes in Likmez availability:

• Check the ASHP Drug Shortage Resource Center for any new shortage declarations
• Monitor the FDA Drug Shortage Database for official listings
• Ask your pharmacist — they often hear about supply disruptions before they are publicly announced

The Bottom Line

There is no official Likmez shortage in 2026, but availability varies significantly by pharmacy and region. If you're struggling to find Likmez, medfinder can help locate it near you quickly and without the hassle of calling pharmacies yourself.

For information on what to take if you can't fill your prescription, see: Alternatives to Likmez If You Can't Fill Your Prescription.