Testim Shortage Update: What Patients Need to Know in 2026

If you've been struggling to fill your Testim prescription in 2026, you're not imagining things. While Testim isn't officially listed on the FDA's drug shortage database, real-world access challenges — from cost and insurance barriers to limited pharmacy stocking — have made it genuinely difficult for many patients to get their medication.

This article gives you an honest, up-to-date picture of what's happening with Testim availability and what you can do about it.

Is Testim in a Formal Drug Shortage in 2026?

No. As of early 2026, Testim (brand-name testosterone 1% gel) is not on the FDA's official drug shortage list. The FDA's shortage database primarily reflects formal reports from manufacturers about inability to meet demand — and no such formal report has been filed for Testim or testosterone gel formulations.

However, "not officially in shortage" doesn't mean "readily available." Access problems are real and stem from several intersecting factors.

The Testosterone Supply Picture in 2026

To understand Testim's access problems, it helps to look at the broader testosterone market:

Injectable testosterone (Testosterone Cypionate / Depo-Testosterone): Has been in intermittent shortage since early 2023. As of April 2026, Testosterone Cypionate remains on the ASHP shortage list. The 100 mg/mL 10 mL vials have been on extended back order.

Generic testosterone gel (1% and 1.62%): Generally available, but demand has increased as patients switch away from injectable testosterone.

Brand testosterone gels (AndroGel, Testim, Fortesta): Available but expensive without insurance, and Testim in particular is less commonly stocked than AndroGel.

Why Testim Is Hard to Access Even Without a Formal Shortage

Several factors combine to create access problems for Testim patients:

1. Most Pharmacies Don't Routinely Stock Testim

Testim occupies a smaller share of the testosterone gel market compared to AndroGel. Many large pharmacy chains (CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid) prioritize stocking generic testosterone gel and AndroGel rather than Testim. This means patients with a Testim prescription often need to seek out pharmacies that will special-order it.

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2. Rising TRT Demand Puts Pressure on All Formulations

The number of testosterone prescriptions written in the U.S. has grown significantly over the past decade, driven by increased awareness of "Low T," direct-to-consumer advertising, and the rise of telehealth TRT clinics. More patients on TRT means more demand hitting all testosterone products — including Testim.

3. DEA Production Quotas Limit Overall Supply

Because testosterone is a Schedule III controlled substance, the DEA sets annual limits on how much manufacturers can produce. These quotas are based on historical demand and can lag behind real-world prescription volume. When demand grows faster than quotas allow, supply constraints emerge across all testosterone formulations.

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4. Cost and Insurance Barriers

Brand-name Testim costs $380–$760/month at retail without insurance. Most insurance plans require prior authorization for brand-name testosterone gels, and many Medicare Part D plans don't cover them at all. When patients can't afford their medication, prescriptions go unfilled — which shows up in pharmacy data as reduced demand and leads to even less stocking.

What Patients Should Do Now

Use medfinder to find stock near you. medfinder calls pharmacies in your area to check which ones can fill your Testim prescription, saving you hours on the phone.

Ask about generic testosterone 1% gel. This is the same drug as Testim at a fraction of the cost, and it's widely available. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if a generic substitution is appropriate.

Refill early. Don't wait until you're out. Refill your Testim 5-7 days before you run out to allow time to locate stock if needed.

Try independent pharmacies. Independent and specialty pharmacies often source from different wholesalers and may stock or special-order Testim more readily than chains.

Check savings programs. Endo Pharmaceuticals offers patient assistance programs for eligible patients. Call 1-800-462-3636, or ask your pharmacist about GoodRx and SingleCare coupons for generic testosterone gel.

Talk to your doctor about alternatives. If Testim consistently isn't available, other formulations may work just as well for you. See our guide to alternatives to Testim for a full rundown.

The Bottom Line

Testim is not in a formal FDA shortage in 2026, but access challenges are real — driven by cost, insurance barriers, limited stocking, DEA quota limits, and surging TRT demand. The key is knowing your options and acting proactively. Don't wait until you're out of medication to start looking for your next fill.