Why Is Clobazam So Hard to Find? [Explained for 2026]

Updated:

February 27, 2026

Author:

Peter Daggett

Summarize this blog with AI:

Struggling to find Clobazam (Onfi) at your pharmacy? Learn why Clobazam is hard to find in 2026, what's causing supply issues, and what you can do.

If Your Pharmacy Can't Fill Your Clobazam Prescription, You're Not Alone

You walk up to the pharmacy counter, hand over your prescription for Clobazam, and hear the dreaded words: "We don't have it in stock." If this has happened to you — or if it keeps happening — you're not imagining things. Clobazam, sold under the brand names Onfi and Sympazan, has been increasingly difficult to find at pharmacies across the United States.

For patients and families managing Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) or other forms of epilepsy, missing even a few doses can have serious consequences. Seizure control depends on consistent medication, and gaps in supply can feel frightening and frustrating.

In this article, we'll explain exactly why Clobazam is so hard to find in 2026, what's behind the supply problems, and — most importantly — what steps you can take right now to get your medication.

What Is Clobazam?

Clobazam is a benzodiazepine anticonvulsant that works by calming abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It's FDA-approved as an add-on treatment for seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome in patients aged 2 and older.

It comes in three forms:

  • Tablets (5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg)
  • Oral suspension (liquid, 2.5 mg/mL)
  • Oral film (Sympazan — dissolves on the tongue)

Because Clobazam is a Schedule IV controlled substance, pharmacies face additional regulations when ordering, stocking, and dispensing it. This adds another layer of complexity to an already strained supply chain.

To learn more about how this medication works, check out our guide on how Clobazam works.

Why Is Clobazam So Hard to Find?

There isn't one single reason Clobazam is hard to find. Instead, it's a combination of factors that have come together to create ongoing availability challenges.

1. Manufacturing and Supply Chain Disruptions

Generic Clobazam has experienced intermittent manufacturing disruptions since around 2020. Raw material shortages, production delays, and quality control issues at manufacturing facilities have all contributed to gaps in supply. The oral suspension formulation has been particularly hard hit.

When one manufacturer experiences a production issue, the remaining manufacturers often can't ramp up quickly enough to meet the full demand, creating a ripple effect across the market.

2. Limited Number of Manufacturers

Clobazam is a relatively niche medication. While it's critical for the patients who need it, the overall patient population is smaller than blockbuster drugs like blood pressure or diabetes medications. This means fewer generic manufacturers produce it, and when one drops out, the impact is outsized.

3. Controlled Substance Regulations

As a Schedule IV controlled substance, Clobazam is subject to DEA production quotas and stricter ordering requirements. Pharmacies can't simply order unlimited quantities, and distributors may limit allocations. These regulations, while important for preventing misuse, can make it harder for pharmacies to keep consistent stock.

4. Pharmacy Stocking Decisions

Many large chain pharmacies use automated inventory systems that stock medications based on demand at that particular location. If a pharmacy doesn't regularly fill Clobazam prescriptions, it may not keep it on the shelf at all. This is especially common in areas with fewer neurology patients.

What You Can Do If You Can't Find Clobazam

The good news is that there are practical steps you can take to improve your chances of finding Clobazam in stock.

Use Medfinder to Check Pharmacy Availability

Medfinder lets you search for Clobazam availability at pharmacies near you in real time. Instead of calling pharmacy after pharmacy, you can see which locations have it in stock — saving you time and stress.

Try Independent and Specialty Pharmacies

Independent pharmacies often have more flexibility in their ordering and may be willing to special-order Clobazam for you. Specialty pharmacies that focus on neurology or epilepsy medications are another excellent option. They're more likely to have consistent stock of niche medications.

Ask Your Doctor About Formulation Alternatives

If you can't find Clobazam tablets, ask whether the oral suspension or Sympazan oral film might be available. Sometimes one formulation is in stock even when another isn't. Your prescriber can also discuss therapeutic alternatives if supply issues persist.

Plan Ahead and Refill Early

Don't wait until you're down to your last few doses. Most insurance plans allow you to refill controlled substances a few days before you run out. Building in a small buffer can help you avoid emergency situations.

Contact the Manufacturer

Lundbeck (maker of Onfi) and Aquestive Therapeutics (maker of Sympazan) both have patient support lines that may be able to help you locate the medication or connect you with assistance programs.

For more detailed strategies, read our full guide on how to find Clobazam in stock near you.

How Much Does Clobazam Cost?

Cost can be another barrier. Brand-name Onfi can cost $150 to $600+ for a 30-day supply without insurance. Generic Clobazam tablets are more affordable, typically ranging from $30 to $150 depending on your dose and pharmacy.

Discount cards from services like GoodRx, SingleCare, and RxSaver can bring the price of generic Clobazam down to approximately $50 to $90 for a common prescription (e.g., 60 tablets of 10 mg). For more tips on reducing costs, see our article on how to save money on Clobazam.

Final Thoughts

Finding Clobazam in 2026 can be a frustrating experience, but understanding the reasons behind the shortage can help you take proactive steps. Between manufacturing disruptions, limited producers, controlled substance regulations, and pharmacy stocking decisions, multiple factors are working against easy access.

The most important thing is to not miss doses. Use tools like Medfinder to locate pharmacies with stock, explore different formulations, work closely with your prescriber, and plan ahead on refills. With the right approach, you can stay on top of your treatment even when supply is tight.

If you're a healthcare provider looking for tools to help your patients, visit our provider's guide for additional resources.

Is Clobazam on backorder in 2026?

Clobazam has experienced intermittent supply disruptions, particularly the oral suspension formulation. Availability varies by pharmacy and region. Use Medfinder to check real-time stock at pharmacies near you.

Why can't my pharmacy order Clobazam?

Because Clobazam is a Schedule IV controlled substance, pharmacies face DEA quotas and distributor allocation limits. Combined with manufacturing disruptions and limited generic producers, some pharmacies may be unable to order it or may only receive limited quantities.

Can I switch from Onfi to generic Clobazam?

Yes, generic Clobazam is available and is therapeutically equivalent to brand-name Onfi. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about making the switch. Generic versions are typically much more affordable.

What should I do if I run out of Clobazam?

Do not stop taking Clobazam suddenly, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms and increased seizures. Contact your doctor immediately if you're running low. They may be able to provide samples, suggest a nearby pharmacy with stock, or adjust your treatment plan temporarily.

Why waste time calling, coordinating, and hunting?

You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.

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