Get the latest Phenobarbital shortage update for 2026. Learn about current supply status, what's causing availability issues, and what patients can do.
If you take Phenobarbital for seizures, epilepsy, or another condition, you may have noticed it's been harder to find at pharmacies lately. Supply problems with essential medications are stressful — especially when missing doses can have serious health consequences. Here's everything patients need to know about the Phenobarbital supply situation in 2026.
As of early 2026, Phenobarbital oral tablets are not formally listed on the FDA's active drug shortage list. However, this doesn't mean every pharmacy has it in stock. Many patients report difficulty finding specific strengths or quantities, particularly:
The situation can vary significantly by region. Pharmacies in some areas may have plenty of Phenobarbital, while others experience weeks-long gaps in availability.
Several factors contribute to Phenobarbital availability problems:
Phenobarbital is a very old, low-cost generic medication. Only a handful of companies still manufacture it in the United States. When even one manufacturer experiences a disruption — whether from a facility issue, regulatory inspection, or raw material shortage — it can ripple across the entire market.
As a Schedule IV controlled substance, Phenobarbital production is subject to DEA manufacturing quotas that cap how much can be made each year. These quotas are designed to prevent diversion and misuse but can limit supply flexibility when demand spikes.
Phenobarbital is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for seizures in dogs and cats. Human and veterinary formulations can draw from the same supply chain, adding competition for limited stock.
Global supply chain challenges — including active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) sourcing from overseas manufacturers — continue to affect medication availability across many drug classes.
Phenobarbital supply issues are not new. The injectable formulation has been on and off the FDA shortage list several times over the past decade. Oral tablet shortages have been less common but have occurred periodically, particularly when a manufacturer temporarily exits the market or faces production delays.
Use MedFinder to check which pharmacies near you currently have Phenobarbital in stock. This is the fastest way to avoid calling pharmacy after pharmacy. For a complete search strategy, see How to Find Phenobarbital in Stock Near You.
Your pharmacist may be able to order Phenobarbital from a different wholesaler or suggest an alternative strength that's available. Don't hesitate to ask — pharmacists deal with supply issues daily and may have solutions you haven't considered. See How to Check If a Pharmacy Has Phenobarbital in Stock.
Let your prescriber know you're having trouble finding Phenobarbital. They can:
Request refills as early as your insurance allows. If you're on a 30-day supply, ask about switching to a 90-day supply to reduce the frequency of refills and give you a larger buffer.
This cannot be stressed enough: do not stop taking Phenobarbital abruptly. Sudden discontinuation can trigger dangerous withdrawal symptoms, including seizures that can be life-threatening. If you're running out and can't find more, contact your doctor immediately for guidance.
Stay up to date on Phenobarbital availability:
Whether the supply situation improves or worsens, it's good to understand all your options:
While Phenobarbital isn't in a formal nationwide shortage as of early 2026, many patients are still finding it difficult to locate at their local pharmacies. The combination of limited manufacturers, controlled substance regulations, and supply chain factors means you need to be proactive about your medication supply. Use MedFinder to find Phenobarbital in stock near you, and stay in close communication with your doctor and pharmacist.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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