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

If you've been prescribed Durezol (difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion 0.05%) and can't find it at your pharmacy, you're not alone. Since April 2024, a shortage of generic difluprednate has been making it difficult for patients across the United States to fill their prescriptions — and as of 2026, that shortage is still ongoing.

This guide explains exactly why Durezol is so hard to find, which versions are affected, what the latest shortage updates say, and what you can do if your pharmacy is out of stock.

What Is Durezol (Difluprednate)?

Durezol is the brand name for difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion 0.05%, a prescription-only steroid eye drop approved by the FDA in 2008. It is indicated for two main uses:

Treating inflammation and pain after ocular surgery (such as cataract surgery)

Treating endogenous anterior uveitis (inflammation of the front part of the eye)

It's one of the most potent topical ophthalmic steroids available — studies show that Durezol dosed 4 times a day provides equivalent inflammation control to prednisolone acetate dosed 8 times a day. That makes it a preferred choice for many ophthalmologists, especially after complex surgery or in severe uveitis cases.

Why Is Durezol in Shortage?

The short answer: the shortage is driven by generic manufacturer supply problems, not a problem with the brand-name Durezol itself.

In April 2024, Exelan Pharmaceuticals — one of the primary manufacturers of generic difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion 0.05% in 5 mL bottles — placed its product on long-term back order. Exelan has not provided an estimated release date, and as of the most recent American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) drug shortage update in August 2025, the situation remained unresolved.

Difluprednate is formulated as an ophthalmic emulsion — a more complex manufacturing process than a simple solution or suspension. Emulsions require precise control of particle size and stability, which makes them harder to manufacture and harder to quickly ramp up production when supply is disrupted.

Which Versions of Durezol Are Affected?

Not all difluprednate is equally hard to find. Here's the breakdown:

Brand-name Durezol (Novartis/Alcon): Generally available throughout the shortage, but costs $250–$400 per 5 mL bottle without insurance — a major barrier for many patients.

Generic difluprednate (Exelan): On long-term back order since April 2024 with no release date.

Generic difluprednate (Dr. Reddy's, Amneal): Available in some markets but with limited production capacity, meaning availability varies by region and pharmacy.

The bottom line: difluprednate is available, but finding the affordable generic version requires extra effort and calling around to multiple pharmacies.

Why Does the Generic Shortage Matter So Much?

The generic shortage matters because of cost. When a patient's insurance plan covers generic difluprednate, they may pay a $10–$50 copay. But when the generic isn't available and they're forced to use brand-name Durezol, they may face copays of $50–$100 or higher — or pay $250–$400 out of pocket if their plan doesn't cover the brand.

For patients who have just had cataract surgery or are managing a uveitis flare, this timing couldn't be worse. Going without adequate anti-inflammatory treatment after eye surgery or during a uveitis episode can lead to complications including vision loss.

Is Durezol Listed on the Official FDA Shortage Database?

Yes. As of early 2026, difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion 0.05% remains on the ASHP drug shortage list — the primary resource used by pharmacies and healthcare providers to track drug supply disruptions. The shortage was first reported in April 2024 and has persisted for nearly two years.

When Will the Durezol Shortage End?

Unfortunately, there is no confirmed resolution date. Exelan has not provided a timeline, and the complex manufacturing process for ophthalmic emulsions means other manufacturers can't quickly fill the gap. The FDA has received interest from additional manufacturers seeking to produce generic difluprednate, but new approvals and production ramp-up take time.

What Should You Do If Your Pharmacy Is Out of Durezol?

Here are your best immediate options:

Call multiple pharmacies. Chain pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, Rite Aid) and independent pharmacies receive stock at different times. The generic from Dr. Reddy's or Amneal may be available at some locations.

Use medfinder. medfinder calls pharmacies near you to find which ones actually have Durezol or generic difluprednate in stock, so you don't have to make those calls yourself.

Ask your doctor about alternatives. Prednisolone acetate 1% (Pred Forte), loteprednol (Lotemax), and dexamethasone are all available alternatives your ophthalmologist may consider. Never switch eye medications without medical guidance.

Use a discount card on the brand. If only brand-name Durezol is available, GoodRx and SingleCare coupons can reduce the cash price to around $44–$49 for generic difluprednate when available — or reduce the brand price to some extent as well.

Check the Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation. If you meet income requirements, Novartis may provide brand-name Durezol at no cost through their patient assistance program.

The Importance of Not Skipping Your Doses

If you've been prescribed Durezol after cataract surgery or for uveitis, do not simply stop using it because you can't find it. Uncontrolled inflammation after eye surgery can lead to serious complications including cystoid macular edema, delayed healing, or vision loss. Contact your ophthalmologist right away if you're unable to fill your prescription.

How medfinder Can Help

medfinder is a service that contacts pharmacies on your behalf to find which ones have Durezol or difluprednate in stock near you. Instead of spending hours calling pharmacies yourself, you can use medfinder.com to locate available stock quickly.

For the latest Durezol shortage information, see our Durezol shortage update for 2026. And if you're worried about cost as well as availability, check out our guide to saving money on Durezol in 2026.