The Minoxidil Shortage in 2026: Where Things Stand

If you've been following the oral Minoxidil supply saga, you're probably wondering: is it still hard to find in 2026? The short answer is that while the situation has improved somewhat compared to the worst of 2023–2024, intermittent shortages persist — especially for the 2.5 mg tablet strength that dermatologists prescribe for hair loss.

This article breaks down the current status, the factors behind the ongoing supply challenges, and practical steps you can take right now to get your Minoxidil prescription filled.

Is Minoxidil Still in Shortage?

The situation is complicated. The FDA has not formally listed oral Minoxidil on its drug shortage database. However, the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) has tracked Minoxidil 2.5 mg tablets as being on shortage, with multiple manufacturers reporting back orders.

Here's what we know as of early 2026:

• Teva had its Minoxidil 2.5 mg tablets on back order through late 2025, with an estimated return in late September 2025.
• Sun Pharma has had intermittent availability of 2.5 mg tablets.
• Par Pharmaceutical has also experienced supply fluctuations.
• The 10 mg tablet strength has been somewhat less affected, as demand for this strength (used primarily for hypertension) has remained more stable.

In practical terms, this means your pharmacy might have Minoxidil one week and not the next. The supply isn't gone — it's inconsistent.

Why Is Minoxidil Still Hard to Find?

The root causes haven't changed much since the shortage first emerged in 2023. For a detailed breakdown, see our article on why Minoxidil is so hard to find. The key factors include:

• Surging off-label demand: Dermatologists and telehealth platforms continue to prescribe low-dose oral Minoxidil (LDOM) for hair loss at high rates. A 2025 international consensus statement published in JAMA Dermatology formalized clinical guidance for prescribing LDOM, which has further legitimized and increased demand.
• Limited manufacturer base: Only a few generic manufacturers produce oral Minoxidil tablets, and production hasn't caught up with the new demand level.
• Distribution bottlenecks: Chain pharmacies with automated inventory systems have been slow to adjust ordering patterns for what was historically a low-volume drug.

How Much Does Minoxidil Cost in 2026?

The good news about Minoxidil is that when you can find it, it's relatively affordable as a generic medication:

• Cash price without coupons: Approximately $23–$28 for 30 tablets (2.5 mg) or about $24 for 100 tablets (10 mg)
• With discount cards (GoodRx, SingleCare): As low as $4–$15 for a 30-day supply
• Cost Plus Drugs: Competitive transparent pricing on Minoxidil 2.5 mg tablets
• Insurance: Typically covered as a Tier 1 or Tier 2 generic for the hypertension indication, but off-label hair loss use may not be covered

For a complete guide to reducing your costs, see How to Save Money on Minoxidil in 2026.

New Options and Developments

A few developments worth noting:

• Telehealth access has expanded: Multiple telehealth platforms now offer consultations and prescriptions for oral Minoxidil for hair loss, making it easier to get a prescription — though finding the medication itself remains the challenge.
• Compounding pharmacies: More compounding pharmacies are now offering custom Minoxidil preparations, providing an alternative source when manufactured tablets are unavailable.
• Clinical guidance: The 2025 JAMA Dermatology consensus statement on low-dose oral Minoxidil has provided clearer dosing guidelines, which may help standardize prescribing and potentially encourage more manufacturers to increase production.
• Topical alternatives: Over-the-counter topical Minoxidil (2% and 5% solutions and foam) remains widely available for patients willing to use a topical formulation.

How to Find Minoxidil in Stock Right Now

Here are the most effective strategies:

1. Use Medfinder to check real-time pharmacy availability in your area
2. Try independent pharmacies — they often have more sourcing flexibility than chain pharmacies
3. Check online pharmacies like Cost Plus Drugs, Amazon Pharmacy, and Honeybee Health
4. Ask about the 10 mg strength — if the 2.5 mg tablets are unavailable, your doctor may be able to prescribe the 10 mg tablets for splitting (with proper guidance)
5. Explore compounding pharmacies for custom preparations

For more detailed tips, read our full guide on how to find Minoxidil in stock near you.

Looking Ahead

The Minoxidil supply situation is gradually improving, but it's unlikely to fully stabilize until manufacturers increase production capacity to match the new baseline demand. In the meantime, being proactive with your refills, using availability-checking tools, and maintaining open communication with your doctor and pharmacist are your best strategies.

If you're concerned about what to do during a gap in your Minoxidil supply, check out our guide on alternatives to Minoxidil. And for information on side effects to watch for, see Minoxidil Side Effects: What to Expect.