Merilog Shortage Update: What Patients Need to Know in 2026

If you rely on Merilog (insulin aspart-szjj) to manage your diabetes, you may have noticed it's not always easy to find at your pharmacy. While Merilog isn't officially listed as "in shortage" by the FDA, real-world availability has been inconsistent since its launch — and there are clear reasons why.

Here's everything you need to know about Merilog availability in 2026, including what's driving the supply challenges, how much it costs, new options on the horizon, and how to find it in stock.

Is Merilog Still in Shortage?

Merilog is not formally listed on the FDA or ASHP drug shortage databases as of early 2026. However, many patients are experiencing practical shortages — meaning their local pharmacies don't carry it or can't get it from their wholesaler quickly enough.

This isn't a manufacturing problem. Sanofi has been producing Merilog since its July 2025 launch. The issue is more about distribution and formulary adoption:

• Many pharmacies haven't added Merilog to their regular inventory yet
• Insurance plans are still deciding whether to cover it
• Demand has been higher than expected due to disruptions elsewhere in the insulin market

Why Is Merilog Hard to Find?

Several factors have contributed to Merilog's availability challenges:

Novo Nordisk's Unbranded Insulin Aspart Discontinuation

Novo Nordisk discontinued its unbranded (authorized generic) version of insulin aspart on December 31, 2025. This product was a key affordable option for patients, and its removal from the market pushed many patients toward alternatives — including Merilog — creating a demand surge.

Ongoing Fiasp Shortages

Fiasp (insulin aspart) FlexTouch pens have been in shortage since mid-2025, with supply issues expected to continue into early 2026. Patients who can't get Fiasp are looking for other rapid-acting insulin options, further increasing demand for Merilog.

Slow Formulary Adoption

As a new biosimilar, Merilog is going through the standard process of being evaluated by insurance companies and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). Until a plan adds Merilog to its formulary, pharmacies in that network have little incentive to stock it. This creates a chicken-and-egg problem: patients can't get it because pharmacies don't stock it, and pharmacies don't stock it because not enough patients are asking for it. For more detail, read why Merilog is hard to find in 2026.

How Much Does Merilog Cost in 2026?

One of Merilog's biggest advantages is its pricing. Sanofi has committed to making it affordable:

• Sanofi Insulins Valyou Savings Program: $35 per 30-day supply for any combination of Sanofi insulins, regardless of insurance status (effective January 1, 2026)
• Sanofi Copay Savings Program: Commercially insured patients pay no more than $35 per 30-day supply
• Medicare patients: The Inflation Reduction Act caps insulin copays at $35/month for Medicare Part D beneficiaries
• Estimated retail price without programs: $100-$150 for a 10 mL vial, $140-$200 for a carton of 5 SoloStar pens

For a full breakdown of savings options, see our guide on how to save money on Merilog.

New Options for Patients in 2026

The insulin landscape is evolving rapidly. Here's what's new:

• Merilog launch expansion: Sanofi continues to expand Merilog distribution, and more insurance plans are expected to add it to formularies throughout 2026.
• Sanofi's $35 insulin commitment: Starting January 2026, all Sanofi insulins — including Merilog, Lantus, Toujeo, Admelog, and Apidra — are available for $35/month through the Valyou program.
• Additional biosimilars in development: More insulin biosimilars are in the pipeline, which should further improve supply and competition in the coming years.
• Telehealth prescribing: Many telehealth providers can now prescribe Merilog, making it easier to get a prescription even if your local doctor isn't familiar with it yet.

How to Find Merilog in Stock

Here's what to do right now if you need Merilog:

1. Search on Medfinder — check real-time pharmacy availability near your zip code.
2. Call independent pharmacies — they're often more willing to special-order medications.
3. Ask your pharmacy to order it — most pharmacies can get Merilog within 1-2 business days from their wholesaler.
4. Consider mail-order pharmacy — some insurance plans' mail-order services have more consistent stock.
5. Talk to your doctor about alternative rapid-acting insulins if you need medication immediately.

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

Final Thoughts

Merilog's availability challenges in 2026 are real, but they're not permanent. The insulin market is going through a transition period — old products are being discontinued, new biosimilars are entering the market, and insurance plans are catching up. Merilog represents progress: it's the first rapid-acting insulin biosimilar, it's backed by Sanofi's $35 pricing commitment, and supply is steadily improving.

If you're having trouble finding Merilog, don't give up. Use Medfinder, lean on your healthcare team, and know that your options are expanding. The most important thing is keeping your blood sugar managed — whether that's with Merilog or a temporary alternative.