Is Uceris Still Hard to Find in 2026?

If you rely on Uceris (Budesonide) to manage your ulcerative colitis, you've probably experienced the frustration of showing up at the pharmacy only to be told it's out of stock. This has been an ongoing problem — and many patients want to know: has anything changed in 2026?

Here's the latest on what's happening with Uceris supply, what it costs, and what you can do about it.

Is Uceris Still in Shortage?

The answer depends on which formulation you need:

• Uceris Rectal Foam: This formulation has been the most affected by supply issues. The foam requires specialized aerosol manufacturing that few facilities can produce, and availability continues to be inconsistent across the country in early 2026. Some regions have adequate stock while others face weeks-long waits.
• Uceris Extended-Release Tablets (9 mg): The oral tablet form has been more reliably available, especially in its generic versions. If your doctor has prescribed the tablets, you'll likely have an easier time finding them.

The FDA has listed Budesonide rectal foam on its shortage database intermittently since 2022. While the situation has improved from its worst point, it hasn't fully resolved.

Why Is Uceris Hard to Find?

Several factors continue to drive availability challenges:

Manufacturing Limitations

The rectal foam is a pressurized aerosol product — not a simple tablet or capsule. Manufacturing requires specialized equipment, strict environmental controls, and complex quality testing. Very few pharmaceutical manufacturers have this capability, so when production issues arise at even one facility, the national supply takes a hit.

Supply Chain Pressures

Pharmaceutical supply chains have been strained since the COVID-19 pandemic. Raw material sourcing, component shortages (like aerosol canisters and actuators), and shipping logistics all contribute to unpredictable supply. Uceris, as a specialty product with complex packaging, is more vulnerable to these disruptions than a standard oral medication.

Distribution and Demand Mismatches

Even when Uceris is being produced, it doesn't always end up where patients need it. Large chain pharmacies in high-demand areas may sell through their allocation quickly, while other pharmacies in different regions may have stock sitting on shelves. This uneven distribution creates the experience of a shortage even when total supply might be adequate nationally.

How Much Does Uceris Cost in 2026?

Cost remains a significant concern for Uceris patients:

• Brand-name Uceris tablets: $1,200 to $1,800 for a 30-day supply (cash price)
• Brand-name Uceris rectal foam: $800 to $1,500 per canister (approximately 2-week supply)
• Generic Budesonide ER tablets: $300 to $600 for a 30-day supply

With insurance, your cost depends on your plan's formulary tier and your deductible status. Many plans place Uceris on Tier 3 (preferred brand) or specialty tier, resulting in copays of $50 to $150+ per fill. Prior authorization and step therapy requirements are common.

If cost is a barrier, read our detailed guide on how to save money on Uceris in 2026.

Are There New Options in 2026?

While no major new Budesonide formulations have launched specifically for UC in 2026, several developments are worth noting:

• Generic availability has improved: More generic manufacturers are producing Budesonide extended-release tablets, which has helped stabilize supply and lower prices for the oral form.
• Mesalamine remains the standard first-line: If you haven't tried a 5-ASA medication, your doctor may recommend Mesalamine (Lialda, Apriso, Pentasa, or Canasa) as an alternative or complement to Budesonide.
• Newer biologics and small molecules: For patients whose UC isn't controlled by Budesonide or Mesalamine alone, treatments like Rinvoq (Upadacitinib), Zeposia (Ozanimod), and Entyvio (Vedolizumab) offer different mechanisms of action.

For a full comparison of alternatives, see our post on alternatives to Uceris.

How to Find Uceris in Stock Right Now

Here are the most effective strategies for locating Uceris:

1. Use Medfinder

Medfinder.com lets you search for pharmacies with Uceris in stock near your zip code. It's the fastest way to check availability without making a dozen phone calls.

2. Try Multiple Pharmacy Types

Don't limit yourself to your usual chain pharmacy. Independent pharmacies, specialty pharmacies, and mail-order pharmacies may all have stock when the big chains don't. For detailed tips, read our guide on how to find Uceris in stock near you.

3. Ask About Generic Budesonide

If you're on the tablet form, generic Budesonide ER is often more available and costs significantly less. Talk to your doctor about whether switching from brand to generic is appropriate for you.

4. Plan Ahead

Start your refill process at least 7-10 days before you run out. If your pharmacy needs to special-order Uceris, having extra lead time prevents gaps in your treatment.

Final Thoughts

The Uceris shortage has been a long and frustrating experience for UC patients. While the situation is slowly improving — especially for the oral tablet form — the rectal foam remains challenging to find in some areas.

The best thing you can do is stay proactive: use tools like Medfinder, explore all pharmacy options, discuss alternatives with your doctor, and never wait until your last dose to start looking for a refill.

Ulcerative colitis doesn't wait, and neither should you. Take control of your medication access today.