Prometrium in 2026: What's the Current Situation?

If you rely on Prometrium or generic Progesterone capsules, you've probably dealt with pharmacy stockouts, backorders, and the stress of not knowing when your medication will be available again. This shortage has been going on since late 2023, and patients across the country are still feeling the effects heading into 2026.

Here's what you need to know about the current state of the Prometrium shortage, what it means for your wallet, and how to get your prescription filled.

Is Prometrium Still in Shortage?

As of early 2026, Progesterone capsules remain on the ASHP (American Society of Health-System Pharmacists) drug shortage list. Both brand-name Prometrium from Virtus Pharmaceuticals and generic versions from manufacturers like Amneal Pharmaceuticals have experienced intermittent supply issues.

The situation has improved somewhat compared to the worst periods in 2024, but availability is still inconsistent. Some pharmacies have steady stock while others are frequently out. Your experience will depend heavily on where you live, which pharmacy you use, and whether you're filling brand-name or generic.

Why Is Prometrium Hard to Find?

Several factors continue to drive the shortage:

• Limited manufacturers: Only a small number of companies make Progesterone capsules for the U.S. market, so any single disruption has an outsized impact.
• Growing demand: More patients are using bioidentical progesterone for HRT, fertility treatments, and off-label uses. Demand has outpaced supply growth.
• Raw material constraints: The global supply chain for pharmaceutical ingredients has faced disruptions that affect production timelines.
• Distribution imbalances: Stock isn't evenly distributed across pharmacies, meaning one location may have plenty while the next has none.

For a deeper dive, read our full explanation: Why is Prometrium so hard to find?

How Much Does Prometrium Cost in 2026?

Cost is a real concern, especially if you're having to shop around at different pharmacies. Here's what you can expect:

• Brand-name Prometrium: The retail cash price is approximately $1,800 to $1,900 for 90 capsules (100 mg). This is extremely expensive without insurance.
• Generic Progesterone: Much more affordable. With discount cards like GoodRx or SingleCare, generic Progesterone capsules can cost as little as $12 to $50 for a 30-day supply.
• With insurance: Generic Progesterone is typically covered on Tier 1 or Tier 2 formularies, meaning low copays. Brand-name Prometrium may require prior authorization.

For money-saving strategies, see our guide: How to save money on Prometrium in 2026.

Are There New Options Available?

While no brand-new Progesterone products have launched recently, patients do have more options than they might realize:

• Multiple generic manufacturers: If one manufacturer's generic is unavailable, another's may be in stock. Ask your pharmacist to check different manufacturers.
• Compounding pharmacies: Custom-compounded Progesterone capsules, creams, or suppositories can be prepared when commercial products are unavailable.
• Alternative progestins: Medications like Medroxyprogesterone (Provera), Norethindrone Acetate (Aygestin), and Endometrin can be prescribed for similar conditions.
• Vaginal use of oral capsules: Some providers prescribe Prometrium capsules to be used vaginally (off-label), particularly for fertility support, which may have different availability than oral dispensing channels.

How to Find Prometrium in Stock Right Now

Here are the most effective strategies for finding Prometrium or Progesterone capsules:

1. Search on Medfinder: Check real-time pharmacy stock near you without having to call around.
2. Check independent pharmacies: They often have different supply channels than large chains.
3. Call early in the week: Many pharmacies receive new shipments Monday through Wednesday.
4. Ask for 90-day supplies: When you do find it, fill a larger quantity if your insurance allows.
5. Consider mail-order: Your insurance plan's mail-order pharmacy may have better access to supply.

For more detailed tips, read: How to find Prometrium in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

The Prometrium shortage isn't over yet, but it's manageable with the right approach. Stay in contact with your doctor and pharmacist, use tools like Medfinder to monitor availability, and don't hesitate to explore alternatives if you need to. Your health doesn't have to wait.

If you're a healthcare provider looking for prescribing guidance during this shortage, see our provider-focused article: Prometrium shortage: What providers and prescribers need to know.