The Nitroglycerin Shortage: Where Things Stand in 2026

If you take Nitroglycerin for angina or heart disease, you've likely felt the impact of ongoing supply disruptions. The Nitroglycerin shortage has affected patients across the United States since 2023, and while the situation has fluctuated, it hasn't fully resolved heading into 2026.

This article gives you the latest update on the shortage — what's happening, why it's happening, what it costs, and what you can do about it right now.

Is Nitroglycerin Still in Shortage?

Yes. As of early 2026, Nitroglycerin continues to experience intermittent supply disruptions, particularly for:

• Sublingual tablets (Nitrostat and generics) — the most commonly affected formulation
• Injectable Nitroglycerin — used in hospitals for acute heart conditions

The FDA has periodically listed these products on its official drug shortage database. While some pharmacies may have adequate stock at any given time, others report being completely out for days or weeks. The situation varies by region, with rural areas and smaller pharmacies often hit hardest.

Other formulations — including transdermal patches (Nitro-Dur, Minitran), translingual sprays (Nitrolingual, Nitromist), and topical ointment — have generally been less affected, though availability can still be spotty.

Why Is Nitroglycerin Hard to Find?

The Nitroglycerin shortage is driven by a combination of factors that make this drug uniquely vulnerable to supply problems:

Few Manufacturers

The sublingual tablet market is dominated by Pfizer (Nitrostat). Unlike medications with dozens of generic manufacturers, Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets have very few producers. When one manufacturer experiences problems, there isn't enough capacity elsewhere to compensate.

Complex Production

Nitroglycerin is chemically unstable and historically classified as an explosive. Manufacturing pharmaceutical-grade Nitroglycerin requires specialized facilities, equipment, and safety protocols. The number of plants certified for this production is limited worldwide.

Specialized Packaging

Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets degrade rapidly when exposed to heat, light, or moisture. They must be packaged in original glass bottles with specific closures — not standard plastic pill bottles. This packaging requirement limits production flexibility and increases costs.

Raw Material Constraints

Sourcing pharmaceutical-grade Nitroglycerin API (active pharmaceutical ingredient) depends on a small number of global suppliers. Any disruption to these suppliers — whether from regulatory issues, natural disasters, or geopolitical factors — can cascade through the supply chain.

For a more detailed look at these causes, read our full article: Why is Nitroglycerin so hard to find? Explained for 2026.

What Does Nitroglycerin Cost in 2026?

The cost of Nitroglycerin varies significantly depending on the formulation and whether you're using brand-name or generic products:

• Generic sublingual tablets: $15-$50 for 25 tablets (when available)
• Nitrostat (brand sublingual): $30-$80 for 25 tablets
• Nitroglycerin spray (Nitrolingual): $80-$200 per canister
• Nitromist spray: $60-$150 per canister
• Transdermal patches (generic): $20-$60 per month
• Brand-name patches (Nitro-Dur): $30-$90 per month

During shortage periods, some patients report paying more than usual — either because the cheaper generic isn't available and they must buy brand-name, or because prices at certain pharmacies have increased. Discount cards and patient assistance programs can help reduce these costs. See our guide: How to save money on Nitroglycerin in 2026.

Are There New Options or Developments?

While no entirely new Nitroglycerin products have launched recently, there are some positive developments:

• FDA efforts: The FDA has been working with manufacturers to resolve the shortage, including expediting inspections and working to bring additional generic suppliers online.
• Alternative formulations: The Nitroglycerin spray (Nitromist, Nitrolingual) has been promoted as an alternative for patients who can't find sublingual tablets. These products use different manufacturing processes and may have separate supply chains.
• Same-class alternatives: Doctors have increasingly prescribed Isosorbide Mononitrate (Imdur) and Isosorbide Dinitrate (Isordil) for angina prevention when Nitroglycerin is unavailable. These are widely available and affordable. Read more in our alternatives guide.

How to Find Nitroglycerin in Stock Right Now

The most effective strategies for locating Nitroglycerin today:

1. Use MedFinder: MedFinder lets you check real-time Nitroglycerin availability at pharmacies near you. This is the fastest way to avoid wasting time on phone calls to out-of-stock locations.
2. Try independent pharmacies: They often use different wholesalers than chains and may have stock when CVS and Walgreens don't.
3. Ask about all formulations: If tablets are out, the spray or patch may be available. Talk to your doctor about what works for your situation.
4. Call early in the week: Pharmacies often receive shipments Monday through Wednesday. Call in the morning after deliveries arrive.
5. Get on waitlists: Register at multiple pharmacies so you're notified as soon as stock comes in.

For a complete walkthrough, see: How to find Nitroglycerin in stock near you and How to check if a pharmacy has Nitroglycerin in stock.

What Should You Do If You Run Out?

Running out of a rescue medication like Nitroglycerin is a serious situation. Here's what to do:

• Contact your doctor's office immediately and explain the situation. They may be able to provide samples, call in a prescription for an alternative formulation, or connect you with a pharmacy that has stock.
• Don't use expired Nitroglycerin as a substitute. Nitroglycerin degrades quickly — especially once the bottle has been opened — and expired tablets may not work when you need them most.
• If you have chest pain and no medication, call 911. Do not try to drive yourself to a pharmacy or hospital. This is a medical emergency.

Final Thoughts

The Nitroglycerin shortage is frustrating, but you have more options than you might think. Stay informed about the latest supply updates, use MedFinder to track availability, work with your doctor on backup plans, and explore all available formulations and alternatives.

We'll continue updating this article as the shortage situation evolves. For more information about Nitroglycerin itself, explore our related articles on side effects, drug interactions, and finding a doctor who prescribes Nitroglycerin.