Is Theophylline XR still in shortage in 2026? Get the latest update on availability, costs, and what patients can do to find their medication.
If you've been trying to fill a prescription for Theophylline XR and hitting dead ends, you're dealing with a problem that's been building for years. Theophylline extended-release products have faced recurring supply disruptions, leaving patients with asthma and COPD scrambling for their medication.
In this update, we'll give you the latest on the Theophylline XR shortage, explain what's driving it, and share practical steps you can take right now.
As of early 2026, Theophylline XR continues to experience intermittent supply disruptions. The situation varies by strength and formulation:
The FDA's Drug Shortage database has listed certain theophylline products periodically, though the drug may cycle on and off the list as manufacturers resolve and then re-encounter production issues.
The shortage comes down to a few key factors:
Over the past two decades, most brand-name theophylline products have been discontinued — including Theo-24, Uniphyl, Slo-Bid, and Theo-Dur. This means the entire market now depends on a small number of generic manufacturers like Endo Pharmaceuticals, Rhodes Pharmaceuticals, and others.
With only a handful of companies making theophylline extended-release products, any single production disruption — a failed quality inspection, raw material delay, or equipment problem — can create a nationwide shortage.
Theophylline's narrow therapeutic index means manufacturing requires tight quality controls. Batches must meet strict specifications for drug release rates, which increases production complexity and the chance of batch failures.
Generic Theophylline XR costs just $10 to $30 per month at retail. The low price means low profit margins, which discourages new manufacturers from investing in production capacity.
Despite the supply challenges, Theophylline XR remains one of the more affordable respiratory medications:
For more ways to reduce your costs, see our guide to saving money on Theophylline XR.
While no new theophylline products have launched recently, patients do have options:
Here's a step-by-step approach:
For a deeper dive, read our complete guide to finding Theophylline XR in stock.
The Theophylline XR shortage is a frustrating reality for patients who depend on this medication. While the situation continues to evolve, the combination of fewer manufacturers, complex production requirements, and low profitability means supply disruptions may continue to come and go.
Your best defense is to stay proactive: use stock-checking tools like Medfinder, maintain an open line of communication with your doctor and pharmacist, and have a backup plan in case your usual supply runs dry. You're not powerless — you just need the right strategy.
Want to understand the full picture? Read why Theophylline XR is so hard to find in 2026.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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