Tenofovir Disoproxil Shortage Update for 2026

If you rely on Tenofovir Disoproxil for HIV treatment, PrEP, or hepatitis B, keeping up with availability is more than just a convenience — it's a medical necessity. Here's what you need to know about the current supply situation in 2026.

Is Tenofovir Disoproxil Still in Shortage?

As of early 2026, Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate is not listed as a critical shortage by the FDA. The drug is manufactured by multiple generic companies, and overall national supply is adequate.

However, that doesn't mean every pharmacy has it on the shelf. Patients across the country have reported intermittent stockouts at individual pharmacies, particularly:

• Chain pharmacies in areas with high PrEP demand
• Pharmacies that don't regularly stock antiretrovirals
• Rural areas with fewer pharmacy options

The situation is best described as spotty availability rather than a true nationwide shortage.

Why Is Tenofovir Disoproxil Hard to Find?

Several factors contribute to the availability challenges:

Increased PrEP Uptake

The number of people taking Tenofovir Disoproxil for HIV prevention has grown steadily. Federal programs like Ready, Set, PrEP and expanded insurance mandates have made PrEP more accessible, driving up demand. This is a positive public health development, but it puts pressure on pharmacy-level inventory.

Generic Market Dynamics

Multiple manufacturers produce generic Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate, including Teva, Mylan (Viatris), Aurobindo, and Cipla. When one manufacturer experiences a production issue — whether from raw material shortages, quality control holds, or facility maintenance — it can create ripple effects in regional supply.

Pharmacy Stocking Patterns

Automated inventory systems at large pharmacy chains order based on recent dispensing history. If a pharmacy hasn't filled many Tenofovir Disoproxil prescriptions recently, it may not keep the drug in stock. For a deeper dive, read: Why Is Tenofovir Disoproxil So Hard to Find?

How Much Does Tenofovir Disoproxil Cost in 2026?

The good news on pricing: generic competition has made Tenofovir Disoproxil one of the more affordable antiretrovirals.

• Generic cash price: Approximately $30–$80 per month with a pharmacy discount card
• Brand-name Viread: Can cost $300–$400+ per month without insurance
• With insurance: Most patients pay $0–$30 per month depending on their plan
• PrEP coverage: Under the ACA, most insurance plans must cover PrEP medications with $0 copay, including Tenofovir Disoproxil

For detailed savings strategies, see: How to Save Money on Tenofovir Disoproxil in 2026.

Are There New Options in 2026?

The HIV prevention and treatment landscape continues to evolve:

• Tenofovir Alafenamide (TAF) — the newer version of tenofovir — is available in products like Descovy and Vemlidy, with improved kidney and bone safety profiles.
• Cabotegravir (Apretude) — a long-acting injectable PrEP option given every two months — eliminates the need for daily pills entirely.
• Lenacapavir (Sunlenca) — a twice-yearly injectable for HIV prevention — received FDA approval and offers an ultra-long-acting alternative.

If you're interested in newer options, talk to your provider. Read more: Alternatives to Tenofovir Disoproxil.

How to Find Tenofovir Disoproxil in Stock

If your pharmacy is out of stock, here's what to do:

1. Search on Medfinder — check real-time availability at pharmacies near you
2. Try specialty pharmacies — HIV-focused and specialty pharmacies maintain more reliable antiretroviral stock
3. Ask for a special order — most pharmacies can get it in 1–3 business days
4. Use mail-order pharmacy — get a 90-day supply delivered to your home
5. Contact Gilead Advancing Access — the manufacturer program can help locate stock or provide the medication directly

For a complete guide, visit: How to Find Tenofovir Disoproxil in Stock Near You.

Final Thoughts

Tenofovir Disoproxil remains a critical medication for millions of people living with HIV or hepatitis B, as well as those using PrEP for HIV prevention. While there's no nationwide shortage in 2026, finding it at your specific pharmacy can sometimes require extra effort.

Stay proactive: refill early, use tools like Medfinder to check availability, and keep your healthcare provider informed about any access issues. Your health depends on consistent, uninterrupted treatment.