Timolol Shortage in 2026: What's Going On?

If you rely on timolol eye drops to manage glaucoma or ocular hypertension, you've likely experienced the frustration of hearing "we're out of stock" at your pharmacy. The timolol shortage has been an ongoing issue, and patients deserve clear, up-to-date information about what's happening and what they can do.

Here's everything you need to know about the timolol shortage as of early 2026.

Is Timolol Still in Shortage?

Yes — but it depends on the formulation. Here's the current picture:

• Timolol gel-forming solution (generic Timoptic-XE): Still in shortage. Sandoz, a major generic manufacturer, has the 0.25% and 0.5% gel-forming solution in 5 mL bottles on back order with no estimated release date. This is the formulation that has been hardest to find.
• Timolol ophthalmic solution (standard drops): More widely available. Apotex and other manufacturers have maintained supply of the standard solution. Most patients can find this version with some effort.
• Dorzolamide/timolol combination (generic Cosopt): Bausch Health had this combination product on shortage due to manufacturing delays, though some supply has returned.
• Timoptic in Ocudose (preservative-free): Available but more expensive, typically ranging from $69 to $285.

Why Is Timolol Hard to Find?

The shortage stems from several factors working together:

Manufacturing Challenges

Ophthalmic products require sterile manufacturing environments, which are expensive and complex to maintain. When a facility encounters quality control issues or needs upgrades, production can halt for months. Sandoz has been unable to provide a timeline for resuming production of the gel-forming solution.

Few Suppliers

Only a small number of companies manufacture generic timolol eye drops. When one major supplier can't deliver, there aren't enough alternatives to absorb the demand.

Growing Demand

Glaucoma prevalence continues to rise as the population ages. The CDC estimates that about 3 million Americans have glaucoma, and many require daily eye drops like timolol to prevent vision loss.

For more context, read: Why is timolol so hard to find?

How Much Does Timolol Cost in 2026?

The cost of timolol varies significantly depending on the formulation and where you buy it:

• Generic timolol 0.5% ophthalmic solution (5 mL): Average retail price around $35, but as low as $3.67 with a GoodRx coupon
• Timolol gel-forming solution (5 mL): Retail around $196, approximately $35 with coupons (when available)
• Timoptic in Ocudose (preservative-free): $69 to $285 depending on pharmacy and insurance
• Oral timolol tablets (30 tablets): Approximately $10 to $30

Generic timolol is covered by most Medicare and insurance plans as a Tier 1 preferred generic, so your copay may be as low as $0–$10. For tips on reducing your costs, see our guide: How to save money on timolol in 2026.

Are There New Options for Glaucoma Treatment?

While timolol remains a widely prescribed medication, the glaucoma treatment landscape continues to evolve:

• Prostaglandin analogs like latanoprost have become the preferred first-line treatment, offering once-daily dosing and strong efficacy
• Combination drops (like dorzolamide/timolol) can simplify treatment regimens for patients who need multiple medications
• MIGS (Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery) procedures are increasingly available for patients who struggle with daily eye drops
• Sustained-release implants are being developed to deliver glaucoma medication over months, reducing the need for daily drops

Talk to your ophthalmologist about whether any newer treatment approaches might be right for you. For alternative medication options, read: Alternatives to timolol.

How to Find Timolol in Stock Right Now

If you need timolol today, here's your action plan:

1. Search on Medfinder — check which pharmacies near you have timolol in stock right now
2. Try independent pharmacies — they often have different wholesalers and may have stock when chains don't
3. Ask about the standard solution — if you've been using the gel-forming version, the regular solution is much more widely available
4. Consider mail-order — mail-order pharmacies may have better access during shortages
5. Contact your doctor early — don't wait until you're completely out to start looking

For a complete walkthrough, read: How to find timolol in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

The timolol shortage continues to affect patients in 2026, particularly those who use the gel-forming solution. The standard ophthalmic solution remains more available and affordable. If you're having trouble finding your medication, use Medfinder, talk to your doctor about formulation changes or alternatives, and don't skip doses — your vision depends on consistent treatment.

We'll continue to update this article as the situation evolves. Bookmark this page and check back for the latest information.