Why Is Bacitracin So Hard to Find Right Now?

If you've been searching pharmacy shelves for Bacitracin ointment and coming up empty, you're not alone. In 2026, many patients are struggling to find this common antibiotic — especially the prescription ophthalmic (eye) form. Whether you need it for a minor cut or an eye infection, the frustration of hearing "we're out of stock" is real.

In this article, we'll explain what Bacitracin is, why it's become hard to find, and what steps you can take to get the treatment you need.

What Is Bacitracin?

Bacitracin is a polypeptide antibiotic that works by stopping bacteria from building their cell walls. Without a functioning cell wall, bacteria can't survive. It's one of the oldest and most widely used topical antibiotics in the United States.

You'll find Bacitracin in two main forms:

• Over-the-counter (OTC) topical ointment — Used to prevent infections in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. You can buy this without a prescription at most pharmacies and drug stores.
• Prescription ophthalmic ointment — Used to treat bacterial eye infections like conjunctivitis and blepharitis. This requires a doctor's prescription.

Bacitracin is also a key ingredient in combination products you may recognize, like Neosporin (Bacitracin + Neomycin + Polymyxin B) and Polysporin (Bacitracin + Polymyxin B). To learn more about what Bacitracin is and how it's used, check out our complete guide to Bacitracin.

Why Is Bacitracin Hard to Find in 2026?

There are several reasons why Bacitracin has become difficult to locate, particularly the prescription ophthalmic form.

1. A Major Manufacturer Stopped Production

In early 2025, Padagis US — the primary manufacturer of Bacitracin ophthalmic ointment in the United States — temporarily discontinued production of the 3.5-gram tube. According to the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), this shortage is expected to last approximately 18 months, with resupply estimated around October 2026.

When a single manufacturer dominates production of a drug and pauses output, the entire supply chain feels the impact almost immediately.

2. The Injectable Form Was Pulled From the Market

In 2020, the FDA requested that all manufacturers of Bacitracin for injection voluntarily withdraw the product from the market. The injectable form — originally approved in 1948 for infant pneumonia — was withdrawn due to serious risks including nephrotoxicity (kidney damage) and anaphylactic reactions. While this doesn't directly affect the topical or ophthalmic forms, it reduced the overall number of Bacitracin products available and shifted demand.

3. Supply Chain Disruptions

Like many medications, Bacitracin's supply chain is vulnerable to disruptions in raw material sourcing, manufacturing delays, and distribution bottlenecks. The pharmaceutical industry continues to deal with supply chain challenges that have persisted since the early 2020s.

4. Increased Demand for Topical Antibiotics

As healthcare providers and patients increasingly focus on wound care and infection prevention, demand for topical antibiotics like Bacitracin has remained steady or increased. When supply drops and demand stays high, shortages follow.

What You Can Do If You Can't Find Bacitracin

The good news is that you have options. Here's what you can do right now:

Use Medfinder to Check Stock

Instead of calling pharmacy after pharmacy, use Medfinder to check which pharmacies near you have Bacitracin in stock. It saves time and helps you find what you need faster. Learn more about how to check pharmacy stock for Bacitracin.

Ask About Alternatives

If you can't find Bacitracin, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about alternatives to Bacitracin. For topical wound care, options include Polysporin, Neosporin, or even plain petroleum jelly (like Aquaphor). For eye infections, your doctor may prescribe a different ophthalmic antibiotic.

Try Independent Pharmacies

Chain pharmacies often run out of stock faster because they serve more patients. Independent pharmacies may have supplies that larger chains don't. It's worth calling around — or better yet, use our guide to finding Bacitracin in stock for more tips.

Check OTC Availability

If you need Bacitracin for minor wound care (not eye infections), remember that the over-the-counter topical ointment is generally still available. The shortage primarily affects the prescription ophthalmic form. Check your local drugstore, grocery store pharmacy, or online retailers.

Talk to Your Doctor About Telehealth

If you need a prescription for Bacitracin ophthalmic ointment or an alternative, many doctors offer telehealth appointments. You can get a prescription without an office visit and have it sent to whichever pharmacy has stock. Read more about finding a doctor who can prescribe Bacitracin.

Final Thoughts

Bacitracin is a trusted, time-tested antibiotic that millions of Americans rely on. The current shortage — especially of the ophthalmic form — is frustrating, but it won't last forever. Padagis US estimates resupply by late 2026, and in the meantime, there are real steps you can take to find what you need or switch to an effective alternative.

If you're struggling to find Bacitracin, start with Medfinder to check pharmacy availability near you. And if you want to learn about saving money on your prescription, read our guide on how to save money on Bacitracin.