Is Orapred still in shortage in 2026? Get the latest update on Orapred availability, pricing, alternatives, and how to find it in stock near you.
If you've tried to fill a prescription for Orapred recently, you already know the situation: pharmacies are frequently out of stock, and getting your hands on this medication can feel like a scavenger hunt. The Orapred shortage isn't new — it's been an ongoing problem — but patients deserve a clear, up-to-date picture of what's happening right now.
In this post, we'll cover the current status of the Orapred shortage, why it's happening, what it costs in 2026, and exactly what you can do to get the medication you need.
As of early 2026, Prednisolone Sodium Phosphate oral solution (the generic form of Orapred) continues to experience intermittent supply disruptions. The FDA/ASHP drug shortage database has listed Prednisolone oral solution multiple times over the past several years, and while availability has improved in some regions, it remains inconsistent across the country.
The shortage affects primarily the liquid oral solution formulation. Prednisolone tablets (such as Orapred ODT) and other oral corticosteroid tablets (Prednisone, Dexamethasone) are generally more available, though even these can experience localized stock-outs during peak respiratory illness season.
The bottom line: Orapred and generic Prednisolone liquid are available, but not everywhere and not all the time. Your ability to find it depends on where you live, which pharmacy you use, and when you're looking.
The Orapred shortage stems from several overlapping factors:
Liquid oral medications are more complex and expensive to produce than tablets. Fewer pharmaceutical companies manufacture Prednisolone oral solution compared to common tablet-form corticosteroids like Prednisone. When one manufacturer has a production issue, there aren't many others to pick up the slack.
Orapred is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for pediatric respiratory conditions. During cold and flu season — especially when RSV, influenza, and COVID-19 circulate simultaneously — demand for Prednisolone liquid can spike dramatically, outstripping available supply.
Raw material sourcing, manufacturing delays, and distribution bottlenecks continue to affect the pharmaceutical industry broadly. These issues hit niche formulations like oral solutions harder than high-volume tablets.
For a deeper dive into why this is happening, read our post on why Orapred is so hard to find.
Medication costs are a real concern, especially when shortages push patients toward brand-name or less common formulations. Here's what you can expect to pay:
Insurance typically covers generic Prednisolone as a Tier 1 (preferred generic) medication, meaning low copays — often $0 to $15. Brand-name Orapred may require prior authorization or may not be covered at all, with insurers preferring the much cheaper generic.
If cost is a barrier, check out our full guide on how to save money on Orapred in 2026.
While no new Prednisolone formulations have been approved recently, patients have more awareness and access to alternatives than ever before:
For a full breakdown of alternative medications, see our post on alternatives to Orapred.
Here are the most effective strategies for finding Orapred or generic Prednisolone today:
Medfinder lets you check real-time pharmacy stock for Orapred and Prednisolone in your area. It's the fastest way to find which pharmacies actually have the medication available.
Independent pharmacies often source from different wholesalers than chain pharmacies and may have access to stock that CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid don't. Check our tips on finding Orapred in stock near you.
If brand-name Orapred isn't available, generic Prednisolone Sodium Phosphate oral solution (15 mg/5 mL) is the same medication and may be in stock when the brand isn't.
If Prednisolone liquid isn't available anywhere in your area, your doctor can prescribe Prednisone, Dexamethasone, or another corticosteroid that's more readily available.
If you or your child has a condition that regularly requires Orapred (like recurrent asthma exacerbations), talk to your doctor about filling a backup prescription during times when supply is more stable — typically late spring through early fall.
The Orapred shortage in 2026 is a continuation of a problem that's been building for years. Limited manufacturers, seasonal demand spikes, and supply chain challenges all contribute to intermittent availability of Prednisolone oral solution.
But you're not powerless. By using tools like Medfinder, exploring generic and alternative options, checking independent pharmacies, and planning ahead, you can get the treatment you need — even when supply is tight.
Stay informed, stay proactive, and don't hesitate to work with your doctor and pharmacist to find the best solution for your situation.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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