Verkazia Shortage Update: What Patients Need to Know in 2026

Patients with vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) who rely on Verkazia (cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion 0.1%) have faced a difficult stretch. Inventory shortages in late 2025 left many patients unable to fill their prescriptions, and the disruption carried into 2026. Here's a clear, up-to-date picture of where things stand and what you can do.

What Caused the Verkazia Shortage?

The Verkazia shortage was tied to a major ownership transition. Verkazia was originally developed and commercialized by Santen Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of Japan-based Santen Pharmaceuticals. Harrow Eye, LLC — a Nashville-based specialty ophthalmology company — subsequently acquired the U.S. rights to Verkazia.

During this commercial handoff, Harrow reported inventory shortages in late 2025 that the company acknowledged were not reflective of the long-term business trajectory. Distribution relationships, wholesaler contracts, and pharmacy stocking needed to be re-established under Harrow's commercial infrastructure — a process that takes time.

Shortage Timeline: A Quick Overview

June 2021: Verkazia receives FDA approval. Santen begins U.S. commercialization.

February 2024: Harrow out-licensed Canadian rights to Verkazia to Apotex Inc.

Late 2025: Inventory shortages begin under Harrow's commercial transition. Patients report difficulty filling prescriptions nationwide.

Early 2026: Shortage continues into Q1. Harrow cites supply challenges in Q1 2026 earnings review but projects accelerating commercial execution.

June 2026: Harrow officially relaunches Verkazia to the U.S. commercial market, designating it as a "priority" product with expanded distribution.

Is Verkazia Available Now?

Yes, with caveats. As of June 2026, Verkazia is back on the market under Harrow's commercial relaunch. However, distribution is still rebuilding and pharmacy-level availability is not yet uniform across the country. Some pharmacies — particularly large retail chains and specialty pharmacies — may have stock, while others may need to order it or may not have established accounts with the new distributor.

The short answer: Verkazia is obtainable, but you may need to make some calls to find it. Don't assume your usual pharmacy has it on the shelf.

What Should Patients Do Right Now?

Don't stop Verkazia without talking to your doctor. Abruptly stopping VKC treatment can cause symptom rebound. Even if you're rationing doses, contact your ophthalmologist or allergist before making changes.

Use medfinder to locate stock. medfinder.com calls pharmacies near you to check which ones can fill your Verkazia prescription. This is faster than calling pharmacies yourself.

Ask your doctor about bridging therapy. If Verkazia is temporarily unavailable, your ophthalmologist may prescribe short-term loteprednol or another therapy to manage symptoms until your Verkazia can be filled.

Try a specialty pharmacy. Specialty pharmacies often have better access to niche ophthalmic drugs. Ask your prescriber for a referral.

Enroll in the Harrow Savings Program. Eligible commercially insured patients may pay as little as $0; uninsured/underinsured patients may pay as little as $79. Call 1-833-4HARROW for details.

How Long Will Verkazia's Supply Remain Stable?

Harrow has publicly committed to Verkazia as one of three priority products in its ophthalmology portfolio. The company expects sequential growth through 2026, and the June 2026 relaunch signals a firm commitment to restoring and maintaining supply. While no supply chain is ever fully immune to disruption, the outlook for Verkazia availability in 2026 and beyond is positive.

The Bottom Line

The Verkazia shortage of 2025–2026 was real and disruptive, driven by a manufacturer ownership transition. As of mid-2026, supply is recovering with Harrow's commercial relaunch. Use medfinder to find pharmacies that currently have it in stock, and speak with your doctor if you need interim treatment options. For more details on alternatives, see our guide: Alternatives to Verkazia If You Can't Fill Your Prescription