The Muro 128 Shortage: Where Things Stand in 2026

If you use Muro 128 for corneal edema, you've probably been dealing with availability problems for years now. The shortage isn't new — but is it getting better? In this update, we'll give you the latest picture of what's happening with Muro 128 supply, what it costs in 2026, and what you can do if your pharmacy is still out of stock.

Is Muro 128 Still in Shortage?

As of early 2026, Muro 128 continues to experience intermittent supply disruptions. The situation has improved somewhat compared to the worst periods in 2022-2023, but it's far from resolved. Here's the breakdown by formulation:

• Muro 128 5% Drops: Generally easier to find than in previous years. Many pharmacies can order them, though they may not always be on the shelf.
• Muro 128 5% Ointment: This remains the most affected product. The ointment has been the hardest to find consistently, and some pharmacies have gone months without being able to stock it.
• Muro 128 2% Drops: More readily available than the 5% products, since the lower concentration is less commonly prescribed and faces less demand pressure.

The FDA's drug shortage database has tracked Muro 128 intermittently. While it may not always be formally listed as "in shortage," the on-the-ground reality for many patients is that finding it still takes effort.

Why Is Muro 128 Hard to Find?

The root causes haven't changed much. For a detailed explanation, see our article on why Muro 128 is so hard to find. In brief:

• Limited manufacturers: Bausch + Lomb is the primary maker, and few companies produce equivalent products.
• Sterile manufacturing complexity: Ophthalmic products require strict sterile conditions, making production vulnerable to disruptions.
• Growing demand: More patients with Fuchs' dystrophy and post-surgical needs are driving higher demand.
• Supply chain fragility: With so few suppliers, any hiccup reverberates through the entire market.

How Much Does Muro 128 Cost in 2026?

Pricing for Muro 128 can vary significantly depending on where you buy it and whether you have insurance:

• Muro 128 5% Drops (brand): $20 to $35 per bottle without insurance
• Muro 128 5% Ointment (brand): $20 to $35 per tube without insurance
• Generic Sodium Chloride 5% Drops: $10 to $25 per bottle
• Generic Sodium Chloride 5% Ointment: $12 to $25 per tube

With insurance, your copay will depend on your plan. Many plans cover Muro 128 or its generic equivalent with a low copay, typically $5 to $20. Some plans may classify it as an OTC product and not cover it under the pharmacy benefit.

For more ways to reduce your costs, see our guide on how to save money on Muro 128.

Are There New Options in 2026?

While no major new branded products have entered the market specifically for corneal edema treatment, a few developments are worth noting:

• Additional generic manufacturers: More generic Sodium Chloride 5% ophthalmic products have become available, which helps diversify the supply chain.
• Compounding pharmacy awareness: More patients and doctors are aware that compounding pharmacies can prepare hypertonic sodium chloride when commercial products are unavailable.
• Telehealth prescribing: It's now easier to get a prescription or prescription renewal through telehealth appointments with ophthalmologists and optometrists, which can speed up the process of switching to an available alternative.

For a full rundown of substitute options, see our guide to alternatives to Muro 128.

How to Find Muro 128 in Stock Right Now

Here are the most effective steps you can take today:

1. Search on Medfinder: Use Medfinder to check real-time pharmacy stock near you. This is the fastest way to find out who has Muro 128 right now.
2. Call independent pharmacies: They often have access to stock that chain pharmacies don't. Some specialize in hard-to-find medications.
3. Ask about generic equivalents: Your pharmacist can check if generic Sodium Chloride 5% is available, even if brand-name Muro 128 isn't.
4. Consider mail-order: Online and mail-order pharmacies may have different inventory from your local store.
5. Talk to your doctor: If you can't find any hypertonic sodium chloride product, your doctor may suggest a compounded preparation or adjust your treatment plan.

For more detailed strategies, read our article on how to find Muro 128 in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

The Muro 128 shortage has been a frustrating, drawn-out problem for patients with corneal edema. While supply has improved somewhat in 2026, it's still not back to normal — especially for the ointment. Stay proactive by using tools like Medfinder, keeping your doctor in the loop, and being open to generic or compounded alternatives.

We'll continue to update this page as the supply situation evolves. If you're a healthcare provider, check out our provider-focused shortage update for clinical guidance and prescribing tips.