NovoLog Mix 70/30 Shortage Update: What Patients Need to Know in 2026

The NovoLog Mix 70/30 shortage has been one of the more disruptive insulin supply issues in recent memory. What began as manufacturing delays in 2024 has evolved into a multi-year supply disruption involving product discontinuations, a major pricing overhaul, and new market entrants. Here is everything you need to know as a patient in 2026.

The Shortage Timeline: How We Got Here

• April 2024: Novo Nordisk reports manufacturing delays causing NovoLog vial shortages. Shipments were disrupted from the production facility, leading to depleted stock at wholesalers and pharmacies.
• July 2024: The ASHP formally adds insulin aspart protamine and insulin aspart mix to its active drug shortage list.
• Late 2024: Novo Nordisk announces plans to cut list prices by up to 75% on many insulin products and to discontinue several older delivery forms, effective January 2026.
• July 2025: Novo Nordisk announces full discontinuation of unbranded insulin aspart protamine and insulin aspart mix products effective December 31, 2025.
• December 31, 2025: Unbranded (generic-equivalent) insulin aspart protamine and insulin aspart products are fully discontinued. Remaining supply ships to wholesalers while it lasts.
• January 1, 2026: Novo Nordisk's reduced pricing takes effect. Branded NovoLog Mix 70/30 vials are now listed at approximately $72.34, and FlexPens at $139.71.

What Is Currently Available in 2026?

• NovoLog Mix 70/30 FlexPen — Still in production. Availability varies by pharmacy and region, with intermittent constraints at high-volume retail locations.
• Unbranded insulin aspart protamine/insulin aspart — Discontinued as of December 31, 2025. Remaining pharmacy stock may still be found at some locations while supplies last.

What Does This Mean for Patients?

The most practical impact for patients in 2026 is this: the pool of available products has narrowed. Where patients once had a choice between branded NovoLog Mix 70/30 and lower-cost unbranded versions, only the branded FlexPen option remains in active production. This reduces substitution options and means more patients are competing for the same product.

The good news is that Novo Nordisk's pricing cuts mean the out-of-pocket cost for the branded product has come down significantly. With GoodRx or savings programs, many patients can now access NovoLog Mix 70/30 FlexPen for $35-$73 per fill — a fraction of historical retail prices.

What Should You Do Right Now?

1. Check your prescription. Make sure your prescription specifies the FlexPen form of NovoLog Mix 70/30, since vial-only prescriptions may create fill issues if vials are harder to source.
2. Refill early. Don't wait until your last pen to refill. Most insurance plans allow you to refill when you have about a week's supply remaining. Start looking for stock before you hit that point.
3. Use medfinder. medfinder contacts pharmacies near you to check which ones can fill your prescription. During a shortage, this is the fastest way to find available stock without spending hours on the phone.
4. Review savings programs. Even with insurance, you may save money by using the Novo Nordisk savings card ($35/month with commercial insurance) or GoodRx. Patients without insurance can use the My Insulin Rx program for $35/month.
5. Have a backup conversation with your doctor. Ask your provider what they would recommend if NovoLog Mix 70/30 becomes unavailable. Having a plan in place before an emergency is much less stressful than scrambling during one.

The Bottom Line for 2026

The NovoLog Mix 70/30 shortage is ongoing but manageable with preparation. The branded FlexPen is still being manufactured. Pricing has improved substantially. But stock at individual pharmacies remains unpredictable. Stay proactive, refill early, and know your backup options. For help with alternatives, see our guide: Alternatives to NovoLog Mix 70/30 If You Can't Fill Your Prescription.