The Marinol Supply Situation in 2026

If you've been struggling to fill your Marinol (Dronabinol) prescription, you're probably wondering: is there an official shortage, or is it just hard to find? The answer is somewhere in between — and understanding the difference matters for how you handle it.

In this article, we'll give you the latest information on Marinol availability in 2026, explain what's driving the supply problems, break down the current cost picture, and share concrete steps you can take to get your medication.

Is Marinol Still in Shortage?

As of early 2026, Marinol (Dronabinol) is not officially listed on the FDA's drug shortage list. However, that doesn't tell the full story. Many patients are still experiencing difficulty finding Dronabinol at their local pharmacies, and availability can vary significantly depending on where you live.

The situation is best described as intermittent supply issues rather than a full-blown national shortage. Some pharmacies have it in stock, while others may go weeks without being able to order it. The inconsistency is what makes it so frustrating — you might find it one month and not the next.

A 2025 study published in a peer-reviewed journal documented the real clinical consequences of a dronabinol supply disruption, finding that patients experienced negative outcomes when they couldn't access their medication. This isn't just an inconvenience — it's a healthcare access issue.

Why Is Marinol Hard to Find?

Several factors contribute to the ongoing supply challenges:

DEA Production Quotas

Dronabinol is a synthetic form of THC, classified as a Schedule III controlled substance. The DEA sets annual limits on how much can be manufactured. These quotas are based on estimated medical need, but they don't always account for sudden changes in demand or production disruptions.

Few Manufacturers

Unlike widely used medications with dozens of generic makers, Dronabinol has a limited number of manufacturers. When one company has production issues — equipment problems, quality control holds, or raw material delays — the impact on overall supply is significant.

Pharmacy Ordering Patterns

Many retail pharmacies, especially large chains, order controlled substances conservatively. If your pharmacy doesn't regularly dispense Dronabinol, they may not keep it in stock at all. This creates a situation where the medication might exist in the supply chain but isn't on the shelves where patients need it.

For a deeper dive into these issues, read our article on why Marinol is so hard to find.

What Does Marinol Cost in 2026?

Cost is an important part of the picture, especially when you're trying to find the medication at a new pharmacy. Here's what you can expect:

• Brand-name Marinol: $300-$800 for 30 capsules at retail price, depending on the dose strength
• Generic Dronabinol: Around $380 retail price for 30 capsules, but as low as $58 with a GoodRx or similar discount coupon
• With insurance: Copays vary, but many plans cover generic Dronabinol. Prior authorization may be required.

If cost is a barrier, check out our complete guide to saving money on Marinol in 2026.

Are There New Options in 2026?

While no new Dronabinol products have launched recently, there are a few developments worth knowing about:

Syndros Oral Solution

Syndros is a liquid form of Dronabinol (5 mg/mL) that remains available. It's classified as Schedule II (more restricted than Marinol capsules) and contains alcohol, which means it's not suitable for everyone. However, it can be an option when capsules aren't available. The Syndros CARES program may help with copay costs.

Expanded Generic Competition

As more generic manufacturers enter the Dronabinol market over time, supply should become more consistent. Generic competition also helps drive prices down, which is good news for patients paying out of pocket.

Alternative Medications

If Dronabinol remains unavailable, your doctor may consider alternatives like Nabilone (Cesamet) for nausea, Ondansetron (Zofran) for antiemetic therapy, or Megestrol Acetate (Megace) for appetite stimulation. Learn more in our article on alternatives to Marinol.

How to Find Marinol in Stock Right Now

Here's what we recommend doing today if you need Marinol:

1. Search on Medfinder — Check real-time pharmacy availability in your area. This is the fastest way to find which pharmacies near you currently have Dronabinol.
2. Ask for generic Dronabinol — If brand-name Marinol isn't available, the generic is the same medication at a lower price.
3. Try independent and specialty pharmacies — Oncology and HIV specialty pharmacies are more likely to keep Dronabinol in stock.
4. Plan ahead — Request refills 7-10 days before you run out to give your pharmacy time to order.
5. Contact your doctor — If you can't find Dronabinol anywhere, your doctor can help explore alternatives or contact specialty pharmacies on your behalf.

For step-by-step guidance, read our article on how to find Marinol in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

The Marinol supply situation in 2026 is improving but still unpredictable. While it's not in an official FDA shortage, real-world availability remains inconsistent, and patients continue to face challenges getting their prescriptions filled.

The best thing you can do is stay proactive: use tools like Medfinder, be open to generic alternatives, work with your healthcare team, and plan your refills ahead of time. You shouldn't have to choose between your health and a supply chain problem — and with the right approach, you don't have to.