The Locoid Supply Situation in 2026: What's Really Going On

If you rely on Locoid (Hydrocortisone Butyrate 0.1%) to manage eczema, dermatitis, or another inflammatory skin condition, you may have noticed it's not always easy to find. Whether you've been told your pharmacy is out of stock or you've seen prices fluctuate, the uncertainty can be stressful — especially when your skin is flaring up.

Here's what you need to know about the Locoid supply situation in 2026, including what's driving the issues, what it costs, and how to find it.

Is Locoid Still in Shortage?

As of early 2026, Locoid is not formally listed on the FDA's drug shortage database. However, "not in shortage" on paper doesn't always reflect reality at the pharmacy counter. Many patients continue to report difficulty finding brand-name Locoid, particularly the Lipocream formulation.

The situation is best described as intermittent availability rather than a full-blown shortage. Some pharmacies have it, others don't. Stock levels vary by region, formulation, and whether you're looking for the brand name or generic.

Generic Hydrocortisone Butyrate 0.1% — available in cream and ointment — tends to be more consistently stocked than the brand-name products.

Why Is Locoid Hard to Find?

Several factors contribute to Locoid's spotty availability:

• Manufacturer supply decisions: Bausch Health controls production and distribution of brand-name Locoid. Any changes in their manufacturing or distribution strategy directly affect availability.
• Limited generic competition: While generic Hydrocortisone Butyrate cream and ointment exist, the Lipocream formulation has fewer generic competitors, creating a tighter supply for that specific product.
• Pharmacy stocking patterns: Locoid isn't among the most commonly dispensed topical steroids. Pharmacies prioritize stocking high-volume medications, which means Locoid may not be on the shelf at every location.
• Insurance formulary changes: As insurers push patients toward cheaper alternatives through step therapy and prior authorization requirements, pharmacy demand for Locoid decreases, leading to less routine stocking.

For a deeper look, read Why Is Locoid So Hard to Find?

What Does Locoid Cost in 2026?

Cost is a significant factor for many patients, especially if insurance doesn't cover Locoid or requires a high copay.

Brand-Name Locoid

• Cash price: $150-$400+ depending on formulation and tube size
• Locoid Lipocream: Often at the higher end of this range
• With insurance: Varies widely; may be Tier 2 or Tier 3 copay ($25-$75 typical)

Generic Hydrocortisone Butyrate

• Cash price: $30-$80 for a 15-45g tube
• With insurance: Often Tier 1 or Tier 2 ($5-$30 typical copay)
• With discount cards: Can sometimes drop to $20-$50

The price difference between brand and generic is substantial. If you're paying out of pocket, switching to generic Hydrocortisone Butyrate can save you hundreds of dollars. Learn more in our guide to saving money on Locoid.

New Options and Developments

While no new generic formulations of Locoid Lipocream have launched recently, patients in 2026 have more tools than ever to manage the availability challenge:

• Real-time inventory tools: Services like Medfinder let you check pharmacy stock in real time, eliminating guesswork.
• Telehealth prescribing: If you need to discuss alternatives with your doctor, many dermatologists and primary care physicians now offer telehealth visits, making it faster to get a new prescription if needed.
• Discount card competition: More pharmacy discount cards and programs are available, which can help reduce out-of-pocket costs even without insurance.

How to Find Locoid in Stock Right Now

Here are your best strategies for finding Locoid today:

1. Check Medfinder: Go to medfinder.com and search for Locoid or Hydrocortisone Butyrate to see real-time pharmacy availability near you.
2. Ask for the generic: If brand-name Locoid is unavailable, generic Hydrocortisone Butyrate 0.1% cream or ointment is the same active ingredient at a fraction of the price.
3. Try independent pharmacies: They often have different supply chains and may stock medications that chain pharmacies don't.
4. Consider mail-order: Mail-order pharmacies may have better access and often offer 90-day supplies at lower per-unit costs.
5. Talk to your doctor: If Locoid is consistently unavailable, ask about alternative medications that may be easier to find.

For more detailed strategies, read our guide on how to find Locoid in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

The Locoid supply situation in 2026 isn't a crisis, but it's not perfect either. Brand-name products — especially Locoid Lipocream — may require some hunting. The generic version is your most reliable option for both availability and affordability.

Stay informed, use the tools available to you, and don't hesitate to talk to your doctor if you're struggling to access your medication. Your skin health matters, and there are solutions — even when the supply chain makes things difficult.

Bookmark Medfinder for quick stock checks, and check back here for updates as the supply situation evolves.