The latest on the Octreotide shortage in 2026. Find out what's available, why supply is limited, and how to get your medication.
If you depend on Octreotide for acromegaly, carcinoid syndrome, or neuroendocrine tumors, the ongoing supply disruptions have likely affected you. Shortages have come and gone over the past several years, and navigating the current situation can be confusing. This article gives you a clear, up-to-date picture of where things stand in 2026 — and what you can do about it.
The short answer: it depends on the formulation.
Octreotide immediate-release injection (subcutaneous/IV): Supply has largely stabilized. Multiple generic manufacturers — including Avet, Fresenius Kabi, Hikma, and Sagent — produce this formulation. However, Sagent has experienced manufacturing delays, and supply can still be spotty depending on your location and the specific strength you need.
Octreotide LAR (long-acting injection): This is where the biggest problems remain. The LAR formulation uses complex microsphere technology that only a few manufacturers can produce. Novartis's brand-name Sandostatin LAR Depot is generally available, but Teva's generic Octreotide LAR has faced production challenges since its FDA approval in October 2024. Teva's 20 mg kit was on back order through late 2025, and some strengths remain intermittently unavailable.
Mycapssa (oral Octreotide capsules): Available for acromegaly maintenance patients, though not widely used yet. This oral formulation isn't affected by the same manufacturing constraints as the injectable products.
Several factors have converged to create the current shortage:
The LAR formulation requires encapsulating Octreotide in biodegradable polymer microspheres — a technically demanding process. Quality control issues at any stage can halt production for months. This isn't like making a generic tablet; very few facilities worldwide have the capability.
For years, Novartis was the sole manufacturer of the LAR formulation. Teva's generic LAR approval in 2024 was a welcome development, but it takes time for a new manufacturer to reach full production capacity. Meanwhile, Sun Pharma discontinued the Bynfezia Pen in 2021, reducing subcutaneous injection options.
The number of patients prescribed Octreotide continues to grow. Expanded use in gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors and off-label applications in conditions like hepatorenal syndrome and variceal bleeding have increased demand beyond what manufacturers anticipated.
Octreotide LAR flows through specialty pharmacy channels, not regular retail pharmacies. When supply is tight, these specialized distribution networks can create bottlenecks, leaving some patients without access even when product technically exists in the supply chain.
Octreotide is an expensive medication, and costs vary significantly by formulation:
Most patients don't pay the full cash price thanks to insurance coverage, copay cards, and patient assistance programs. Novartis offers a copay card for Sandostatin LAR covering up to $15,000 per year in copay assistance for commercially insured patients. For more savings strategies, read our guide on how to save money on Octreotide.
The Octreotide landscape is evolving. Here's what's new:
Approved by the FDA in October 2024, Teva's generic version of Sandostatin LAR is priced 40-50% lower than the brand. As production stabilizes, this should meaningfully improve both availability and affordability for patients who need the LAR formulation.
For acromegaly patients who have responded to injectable Octreotide or Lanreotide, Mycapssa offers a needle-free option. Approved in 2020, it's still relatively new and not suitable for all Octreotide patients, but it eliminates the supply challenges associated with injectable formulations.
While not Octreotide, Lanreotide is an alternative somatostatin analog that many doctors are prescribing when Octreotide is unavailable. It has a different manufacturer (Ipsen) and different supply chain, so it may be available when Octreotide is not. Read more about alternatives to Octreotide.
Here's your action plan:
For a complete walkthrough, see our guide on how to find Octreotide in stock near you.
The Octreotide shortage has been a difficult reality for patients who depend on this medication. While the situation is gradually improving — thanks to new generic approvals and additional manufacturers — supply disruptions are likely to continue through 2026, especially for the LAR formulation.
Stay proactive: use Medfinder to monitor availability, keep your prescriptions current, and have a backup plan in place with your doctor. If you're struggling with cost, explore patient assistance programs and discount options. For more information about Octreotide, visit our guides on side effects, drug interactions, and finding a prescribing doctor.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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