The Ofloxacin Shortage: Where Things Stand in 2026

If you rely on Ofloxacin — whether it's the oral tablets for a UTI, the eye drops for conjunctivitis, or the ear drops for an ear infection — you may have noticed that getting your prescription filled isn't always easy. Drug shortages have become an increasingly common problem across the United States, and Ofloxacin has been caught up in the trend.

Here's an updated look at the Ofloxacin supply situation in 2026, what's driving the shortage, and what you can do to get your medication.

Is Ofloxacin Still in Shortage?

As of early 2026, the picture is mixed:

• Ofloxacin ophthalmic solution (eye drops) has been listed on the ASHP drug shortage list since 2022. While Apotex currently has supply available, not all pharmacies consistently stock it. Availability varies significantly by region.
• Ofloxacin otic solution (ear drops) has experienced intermittent supply issues. It's generally findable but may require checking multiple pharmacies.
• Ofloxacin oral tablets are in better supply. Multiple generic manufacturers produce the 200 mg, 300 mg, and 400 mg tablets, and widespread shortages of the oral form are uncommon.

The bottom line: if you need Ofloxacin eye drops or ear drops, you may still run into availability problems. Oral tablets are generally easier to find.

Why Is Ofloxacin Hard to Find?

Several factors have contributed to the Ofloxacin supply challenges:

Fewer Manufacturers Than You'd Expect

The brand-name versions of Ofloxacin (Floxin, Ocuflox, Floxin Otic) have all been discontinued. The market now relies entirely on generic manufacturers, and for the sterile formulations (eye and ear drops), only a handful of companies are producing them. When one manufacturer experiences a disruption, the remaining suppliers can't always keep up with demand.

Sterile Manufacturing Is Complex

Eye drops and ear drops must be manufactured in sterile facilities that meet strict FDA standards. Building and maintaining these facilities is expensive, and quality control issues can shut down production lines for months. This is a key reason why the ophthalmic solution has been in shorter supply than the oral tablets.

Supply Chain Disruptions

Global supply chain challenges — from raw material shortages to shipping delays — have affected pharmaceutical manufacturing broadly. Generic drugs with low profit margins are especially vulnerable because manufacturers have less financial cushion to absorb cost increases.

Shifting Prescribing Patterns

The FDA's boxed warning on all fluoroquinolones has led many doctors to reserve these drugs for more serious infections. While this is appropriate from a safety standpoint, it has reduced overall demand, which in turn has reduced production capacity. When supply and demand both shrink, even small disruptions can create localized shortages.

How Much Does Ofloxacin Cost in 2026?

One silver lining: generic Ofloxacin remains affordable for most patients.

• Oral tablets: As low as $2.27 with a GoodRx coupon. Without a coupon, cash prices range from about $10 to $60 depending on the quantity and strength.
• Ophthalmic solution: Starting at about $4.77 with a GoodRx coupon. Cash prices without a coupon can run $20 to $57.
• Otic solution: Typically $8 to $80 depending on the pharmacy and whether you use a discount card.

If cost is a concern, check out our detailed guide on how to save money on Ofloxacin.

Are There New Options or Developments?

While no new Ofloxacin formulations have been introduced recently, there are some relevant developments:

• Additional generic approvals: The FDA continues to encourage generic drug competition, and any new ANDA (Abbreviated New Drug Application) approvals for Ofloxacin could help improve supply.
• Alternative fluoroquinolones: Ciprofloxacin and Levofloxacin remain widely available in oral, ophthalmic, and otic forms. If Ofloxacin isn't available, these are often effective substitutes. Read more about alternatives to Ofloxacin.
• Compounding pharmacies: Some compounding pharmacies can prepare Ofloxacin solutions when manufactured versions are unavailable.

How to Find Ofloxacin in Stock

If you need Ofloxacin and your pharmacy is out, here's a step-by-step approach:

1. Search on Medfinder — check real-time pharmacy availability in your area
2. Call independent pharmacies — they may use different wholesalers than chain stores
3. Ask your pharmacy to order it — special orders typically arrive in 1-2 business days
4. Check compounding pharmacies — they can make sterile solutions on-site
5. Talk to your doctor — they may switch you to Levofloxacin or Ciprofloxacin if Ofloxacin is unavailable

For more detailed tips, read our guide on how to find Ofloxacin in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

The Ofloxacin shortage in 2026 is real but manageable. Oral tablets are generally available, while the eye drop and ear drop formulations may require some extra effort to locate. Prices remain low for the generic versions, and there are effective alternatives if your specific formulation is out of stock.

Stay proactive: use Medfinder to search for availability, keep your doctor informed if you're having trouble finding your medication, and don't wait until you're completely out of your prescription to start looking. The earlier you start, the more options you'll have.

For a deeper understanding of this medication, read our post on what Ofloxacin is and how to use it.