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

Updated:

February 14, 2026

Author:

Peter Daggett

Summarize this blog with AI:

Struggling to find Tirosint at your pharmacy? Learn why Tirosint is hard to find in 2026, what's causing availability issues, and what you can do right now.

Why Is Tirosint So Hard to Find?

If you've been standing at your pharmacy counter hearing the words "we don't have that in stock," you're not alone. Tirosint — the brand-name levothyroxine gel capsule used to treat hypothyroidism — has become increasingly difficult to find at many pharmacies across the United States. For patients who depend on this medication to manage their thyroid condition, the frustration is real.

In this article, we'll break down exactly what Tirosint is, why it's been hard to find, and what steps you can take to get your prescription filled in 2026.

What Is Tirosint?

Tirosint is a brand-name prescription medication that contains Levothyroxine Sodium in a unique gel capsule formulation. It's manufactured by IBSA Pharma and is used to treat hypothyroidism — a condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone.

Unlike standard Levothyroxine tablets (such as Synthroid or Levoxyl), Tirosint contains only three inactive ingredients: gelatin, glycerin, and water. This minimal formulation makes it a preferred choice for patients with absorption issues, food sensitivities, or allergies to the dyes and fillers found in traditional Levothyroxine tablets.

Tirosint is available in capsule form in strengths ranging from 13 mcg to 200 mcg. There's also Tirosint-SOL, an oral liquid solution version that comes in 15 different strengths.

Why Is Tirosint Hard to Find in 2026?

There are several reasons why you might be struggling to find Tirosint at your local pharmacy. Let's look at the main factors:

1. It's a Niche, Specialty Medication

Tirosint serves a specific segment of hypothyroid patients — those who need a cleaner formulation with fewer inactive ingredients. Because it's not the first-line Levothyroxine product most doctors prescribe, many pharmacies don't keep large quantities on their shelves. Chain pharmacies in particular tend to stock medications based on demand, and Tirosint's smaller patient population means lower inventory levels.

2. Supply Chain Disruptions in the Thyroid Market

The broader Levothyroxine market has faced intermittent supply issues in recent years. In early 2025, generic Levothyroxine tablets experienced supply constraints that were significant enough for Kaiser Permanente to issue patient notifications. When generic tablet supply tightens, more patients and doctors turn to alternative formulations like Tirosint, which can strain an already limited supply.

3. Insurance and Prior Authorization Barriers

Many insurance plans require patients to try generic Levothyroxine tablets before covering Tirosint. This step therapy requirement means pharmacies may not stock Tirosint regularly since fewer insured patients fill it there. Additionally, the prior authorization process can cause delays that make it feel like the drug is unavailable when it's actually an insurance access problem.

4. Limited Distribution Network

Because Tirosint is made by a single manufacturer (IBSA Pharma), there's only one source for the brand-name product. While an authorized generic capsule exists (currently through YARAL Pharma), the overall production volume for Levothyroxine gel capsules is much smaller than for tablets. Any disruption at the manufacturing level can ripple through the supply chain quickly.

What You Can Do to Find Tirosint

The good news is that Tirosint is still being manufactured and distributed. Here are some practical steps to help you find it:

Use Medfinder to Check Pharmacy Availability

The fastest way to find Tirosint in stock near you is to use Medfinder. Medfinder checks real-time availability at pharmacies in your area so you don't waste time calling around. Simply search for Tirosint, enter your zip code, and see which pharmacies have it available.

Try Independent Pharmacies

Independent pharmacies often have more flexibility in their ordering and may be willing to special-order Tirosint for you. They may also have better relationships with smaller distributors who carry specialty medications. Don't limit your search to chain pharmacies — an independent pharmacy near you might be your best bet.

Ask About the Tirosint Direct Program

IBSA Pharma offers the Tirosint Direct Program, a mail-order option where you can get Tirosint for $65 per month (30-day supply) or $170 for a 90-day supply through participating pharmacies. This bypasses local availability issues entirely. For more details, visit the savings and coupons guide for Tirosint.

Talk to Your Doctor About Alternatives

If you truly cannot find Tirosint anywhere, talk to your prescriber about alternative thyroid medications. Options include Synthroid, Levoxyl, generic Levothyroxine tablets, or Armour Thyroid. However, switching thyroid medications should always be done under medical supervision with appropriate lab monitoring.

Call Ahead and Plan Refills Early

Don't wait until you're on your last pill to try to fill your Tirosint prescription. Call your pharmacy a week before you need a refill to confirm they have it in stock or can order it. Planning ahead gives you time to find alternatives if your usual pharmacy is out.

Final Thoughts

Finding Tirosint in 2026 can be challenging, but it's far from impossible. The key is being proactive: use tools like Medfinder to check availability, explore independent pharmacies, and consider the Tirosint Direct mail-order program. If you're a provider looking for tools to help your patients, check out our provider's guide to finding Tirosint.

Your thyroid health is too important to leave to chance. With a little planning and the right resources, you can stay on track with your Tirosint prescription.

Is Tirosint on backorder in 2026?

Tirosint is not formally listed on the FDA or ASHP drug shortage databases. However, many patients report difficulty finding it at local pharmacies due to low stocking levels and supply chain variability. Using a tool like Medfinder can help you locate pharmacies that currently have it in stock.

Why does my pharmacy never have Tirosint?

Tirosint is a specialty brand-name medication with a smaller patient base compared to generic Levothyroxine tablets. Many pharmacies, especially large chains, stock based on demand and may not carry Tirosint regularly. Try asking your pharmacy to special-order it, or check independent pharmacies in your area.

Can I get Tirosint through mail order?

Yes. IBSA Pharma offers the Tirosint Direct Program, which provides Tirosint through participating mail-order pharmacies for $65 per 30-day supply or $170 for a 90-day supply. This is a good option if local pharmacies don't carry it consistently.

Is there a generic version of Tirosint?

Yes. An authorized generic Levothyroxine Sodium capsule (gel cap formulation) is available through YARAL Pharma. It contains the same active ingredient and formulation as brand-name Tirosint but may be more affordable. Ask your pharmacist if the authorized generic is available.

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