Nitro-Bid Shortage Update for 2026

If you rely on Nitro-Bid (Nitroglycerin 2% ointment) to manage your angina, staying informed about supply issues is important. This article gives you the latest update on the Nitro-Bid shortage status and what it means for patients in 2026.

Current Status: What Is Happening With Nitro-Bid?

The Nitro-Bid brand name was discontinued by Savage Laboratories. This means the product labeled "Nitro-Bid" is no longer manufactured. However, generic Nitroglycerin 2% ointment — which contains the same active ingredient at the same strength — is still produced by a small number of generic manufacturers.

The challenge is that with limited manufacturers, the supply of generic Nitroglycerin ointment can be inconsistent. Some pharmacies may have it in stock while others do not. This creates a patchwork of availability that varies by region and changes from week to week.

Is Nitroglycerin Ointment on the FDA Shortage List?

Nitroglycerin ointment has experienced periodic supply issues, though it may not always appear on the FDA's official drug shortage list. The FDA shortage list captures major, widespread shortages reported by manufacturers. Localized or intermittent supply disruptions — like those affecting Nitroglycerin ointment — may not always be formally listed even when patients are having real difficulty finding the medication.

We recommend checking the FDA Drug Shortages database periodically at accessdata.fda.gov for the most current official information.

Why Does This Shortage Keep Happening?

Several factors contribute to the ongoing supply challenges:

• Few manufacturers: Nitroglycerin ointment is produced by only a handful of generic companies. If one experiences production delays, supply drops significantly.
• Small market: Compared to oral nitrates and Nitroglycerin patches, the ointment form has a smaller patient population. This makes it less profitable for manufacturers to produce.
• Raw material issues: Nitroglycerin is a sensitive compound that requires careful handling. Any disruption in raw material supply can delay production.
• Brand discontinuation: When Savage Laboratories stopped making Nitro-Bid, it removed one source from an already limited market.

For a deeper explanation, see our article on why Nitro-Bid is so hard to find.

What This Means for Patients

If you take Nitroglycerin ointment, here is what you should know:

• Your medication may take longer to find. You may need to call multiple pharmacies or use tools like MedFinder to locate a pharmacy with stock.
• Refill early. Do not wait until you are completely out. Start looking for a refill when you have about one to two weeks of supply left.
• The generic works the same. If your prescription says "Nitro-Bid," the generic Nitroglycerin 2% ointment is therapeutically equivalent. Your pharmacist can fill it without a new prescription.
• Alternatives are available. If you truly cannot find Nitroglycerin ointment, several other medications can prevent angina. See our guide on alternatives to Nitro-Bid.

Steps You Can Take Right Now

1. Check MedFinder. Visit medfinder.com to search for pharmacies near you that have Nitroglycerin ointment in stock.
2. Call your pharmacy. Ask if they can order it from their wholesaler. Even if it is not on the shelf, they may be able to get it in a few days.
3. Try different pharmacy types. Hospital outpatient pharmacies, compounding pharmacies, and mail-order pharmacies may have better access.
4. Talk to your doctor. If you anticipate running out, contact your doctor sooner rather than later. They can help you find a solution or switch to an available alternative.
5. Do not stop your medication. Stopping Nitroglycerin ointment abruptly can lead to rebound angina. Always consult your doctor before making changes.

Looking Ahead: Will the Shortage Get Better?

There is no clear timeline for when Nitroglycerin ointment supply will fully stabilize. The market dynamics — few manufacturers, small patient population, and sensitive raw materials — mean that supply disruptions could continue to occur.

However, generic manufacturers are aware of the demand, and the FDA has mechanisms to encourage production of medications in shortage. Patients can also help by reporting shortages to the FDA and their state pharmacy boards.

Staying Connected

We update this article as new information becomes available. Bookmark this page and check back for the latest Nitro-Bid shortage updates.

For related information, you may also want to read:

• How to find Nitro-Bid in stock near you
• How to save money on Nitro-Bid
• Nitro-Bid side effects: What to expect

The Bottom Line

The Nitro-Bid brand is discontinued, and generic Nitroglycerin ointment supply remains limited in 2026. While this is frustrating, you have options. Use MedFinder to locate stock, refill early, and stay in touch with your doctor. If Nitroglycerin ointment is unavailable, effective alternative medications can keep your angina under control.