Mineral Oil Shortage Update: What Patients Need to Know in 2026

If you've searched for mineral oil at your local pharmacy and come up empty, you might be wondering: is there an actual shortage? Here's the straightforward answer — and what you can do about it.

Is There a Mineral Oil Shortage in 2026?

No. As of 2026, mineral oil is not on the FDA Drug Shortage list and is not considered a nationally scarce medication. Mineral oil is an over-the-counter lubricant laxative produced by multiple manufacturers — including Fleet (C.B. Fleet Company), Konsyl (Kondremul), and dozens of store-brand suppliers — giving the market ample supply redundancy.

Unlike prescription medications that can face manufacturing plant shutdowns, raw material shortages, or regulatory holds, OTC mineral oil benefits from a diversified, mature supply chain. If one brand faces a distribution gap, others remain available.

Why Might My Pharmacy Be Out of Stock?

Even without a national shortage, local stock-outs happen for several reasons:

Reduced shelf space: As newer laxatives like MiraLax have grown in popularity, some pharmacies have allocated less shelf space to older products like mineral oil.

Demand spikes: Post-holiday periods and travel seasons often see increased demand for laxatives, and pharmacies may not restock quickly enough.

Distribution delays: Shipping disruptions, staffing shortages at distribution centers, or reordering timing can leave shelves temporarily bare.

Small pharmacy ordering: Independent or specialty pharmacies order infrequently and may not stock mineral oil at all.

What Does the Availability Picture Look Like?

Mineral oil is one of the most accessible OTC medications on the market. A 16-oz (473 mL) bottle retails for as low as $6–$10, and it is sold under at least five brand names plus dozens of store-brand labels. It is available at:

Major pharmacy chains: CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid

Mass retailers: Walmart, Target, Costco

Grocery pharmacies: Kroger, Safeway, Albertsons

Online: Amazon, Walmart.com (reliable for home delivery)

What Should I Do If I Can't Find Mineral Oil?

The most efficient approach is to use medfinder. medfinder calls pharmacies near you to check which ones have your medication in stock and texts you the results — so you don't have to call around yourself.

You can also try:

Checking a different brand — Fleet, Kondremul, and store brands are all 100% mineral oil and work identically

Ordering online from Amazon or Walmart.com (typically 1–2 day delivery)

Asking your pharmacist about an OTC alternative such as MiraLax or Colace if you need immediate relief

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Has Mineral Oil Ever Been in a Shortage?

There have been no significant FDA-tracked shortages of mineral oil in recent history. Unlike prescription drugs where a single manufacturer may supply most of the market, OTC mineral oil is commoditized with many competing brands. The raw material (highly refined petroleum-derived mineral oil) is widely available.

Bottom Line for Patients

Mineral oil is not in a national shortage. If you can't find it at one pharmacy, try another location or check online. For a faster solution, see our guide on how to find mineral oil in stock near you.