Millipred Shortage Update: What Patients Need to Know in 2026

If you've been struggling to fill a Millipred or prednisolone prescription in 2026, you're dealing with a supply problem that's been affecting patients for years. Here's the most up-to-date picture of where things stand — by formulation, by region, and by season — and what you can do right now.

Is Millipred Still in Shortage in 2026?

As of early 2026, prednisolone oral solution availability remains inconsistent. The situation has improved compared to the worst periods of 2022–2023, but supply is not fully stable. The answer to 'is it in shortage?' depends heavily on which formulation you need and where you're located.

Shortage Status by Formulation

Prednisolone oral solution (15 mg/5 mL): This formulation has been the most frequently affected and has appeared on the FDA Drug Shortage Database intermittently since 2020. Supply gaps continue to occur, especially during fall and winter respiratory illness season.

Prednisolone oral solution (10 mg/5 mL) — Millipred branded: The Millipred-branded 10 mg/5 mL formulation has experienced localized availability issues but is generally more available than the 15 mg/5 mL concentration.

Prednisolone tablets (5 mg): Generally available. Tablets are rarely in shortage nationwide, though individual pharmacies may have temporary stockouts.

Shortage Timeline: How We Got Here

2020–2021: Initial shortages emerged. COVID-19 disrupted pharmaceutical manufacturing globally. Prednisolone oral solution first appeared on the FDA shortage list.

2022–2023: Worst period of shortages. Multiple manufacturers reported production delays, including Hi-Tech Pharmacal and Pharmaceutical Associates. Seasonal demand spikes during respiratory illness season made the problem significantly worse for pediatric patients.

2024: Partial recovery. Supply improved but remained inconsistent. Some concentrations stayed on the FDA shortage list.

2025–2026: Supply remains inconsistent. Better than the 2022–2023 peak, but not yet stable. Patients should plan ahead and have backup options ready.

Why Winter Is the Worst Time for Prednisolone Supply

Demand for prednisolone liquid spikes every fall and winter. Croup — a common childhood respiratory illness causing a barky cough and breathing difficulty — is frequently treated with a single dose of prednisolone or dexamethasone. Pediatric asthma flares also increase during cold and flu season. When millions more prescriptions are written in a short window, even a marginally stable supply chain can buckle.

If you're heading into fall or winter with a child who relies on prednisolone, talk to your pediatrician now about a plan. Don't wait for a flare-up to start calling pharmacies.

What Does Millipred Cost in 2026?

Pricing hasn't changed dramatically despite the supply issues. Here's what patients can expect:

Generic prednisolone oral solution: $10–$50 for a typical course without insurance, depending on concentration and pharmacy

Generic prednisolone tablets: $5–$20 for a short course without insurance

With GoodRx or SingleCare: Generic oral solution typically $8–$25; tablets as low as $5–$10

With insurance: Most plans cover generic prednisolone as Tier 1, with $0–$10 copay

Developments That May Improve Supply

A few positive developments are worth noting for 2026:

Compounding pharmacies: Many now routinely stock prednisolone API and can prepare oral solution on demand. A doctor referral can help you access compounded prednisolone if commercial supply is unavailable.

Dexamethasone as alternative: Dexamethasone oral solution has become a more commonly accepted alternative for pediatric use, with updated clinical guidance supporting single-dose regimens for croup.

Telehealth access: It's now easier to get prescription adjustments through telehealth if you need to switch formulations due to a shortage.

What Patients Should Do Right Now

Refill early — don't wait until your last dose.

Ask your prescriber now about backup options if Millipred isn't available.

Check multiple pharmacies, including independent pharmacies and warehouse stores.

Use medfinder to search pharmacies near you without spending hours on the phone.

Ask your prescriber about a compounding pharmacy referral for liquid formulations.

For detailed search strategies, see how to find Millipred in stock near you.