Get the latest Propranolol XR shortage update for 2026. Learn which strengths are affected, what's causing it, and how to get your prescription filled.
The Propranolol XR shortage has been affecting patients across the United States, and as of early 2026, many pharmacies are still reporting limited availability. If you've been struggling to fill your prescription, this article has the latest information on the shortage — including which strengths are affected, what's behind it, and what you can do.
The shortage has impacted multiple strengths of extended-release Propranolol, including:
Availability varies by region, pharmacy, and manufacturer. Some strengths may be available even when others are not. It's worth asking your pharmacist to check all available strengths and manufacturers when you try to fill your prescription.
The Propranolol XR shortage is the result of several factors coming together:
Several generic manufacturers — including Teva, Ani Pharmaceuticals, and Heritage Pharmaceuticals — have experienced production delays. These disruptions can be caused by equipment maintenance, FDA compliance issues, or capacity limitations at manufacturing facilities.
The active ingredient for Propranolol is sourced from a limited number of suppliers, many of which are overseas. Disruptions in global shipping, quality control holds, and raw material shortages have all contributed to reduced output.
Propranolol prescribing has increased significantly in recent years. Off-label uses for anxiety, performance anxiety, and PTSD have broadened the patient population well beyond traditional cardiovascular indications. This increased demand has put additional pressure on an already strained supply.
The extended-release formulation of Propranolol has fewer generic manufacturers compared to the immediate-release version. With less production capacity in the market, any disruption has an outsized impact on availability.
The FDA monitors drug shortages and works with manufacturers to resolve them. The agency can:
You can check the FDA Drug Shortage Database for official updates on Propranolol ER availability. However, the database doesn't always reflect real-time conditions at individual pharmacies.
Use MedFinder to search for Propranolol XR at pharmacies near you. Stock levels change frequently, so it's worth checking regularly.
If you can't find Propranolol XR, your doctor may be able to:
Learn more about your options in our guide on alternatives to Propranolol XR.
Try to refill your prescription at least one week before you run out. This gives you time to search multiple pharmacies if your usual one is out of stock. Consider setting a reminder on your phone.
Mail-order services sometimes have access to different inventory than local retail pharmacies. Ask your insurance plan about mail-order options, or check services like Amazon Pharmacy or Cost Plus Drugs.
The shortage situation can change quickly. Here's how to stay up to date:
For more background on why this medication is so difficult to find, read our article: Why is Propranolol XR so hard to find?
The Propranolol XR shortage in 2026 is real and affecting patients nationwide. The causes are complex — spanning manufacturing, supply chains, and rising demand — and there's no single fix. But by staying proactive, working with your doctor, and using tools like MedFinder, you can improve your chances of getting your medication without interruption.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
Try Medfinder Concierge FreeMedfinder's mission is to ensure every patient gets access to the medications they need. We believe this begins with trustworthy information. Our core values guide everything we do, including the standards that shape the accuracy, transparency, and quality of our content. We’re committed to delivering information that’s evidence-based, regularly updated, and easy to understand. For more details on our editorial process, see here.
%2C%20Color%3DOriginal.png)
