GLP-1 News10 min readUpdated 2026-03-28

    GLP-1 Medication Availability Tracker: Current Shortage Status

    Real-time overview of GLP-1 medication availability. Current shortage status for semaglutide, tirzepatide, and alternatives. Tips for managing supply disruptions.

    Last Updated: March 2026

    This tracker is updated regularly based on FDA shortage databases, manufacturer announcements, and pharmacy network reports. Supply situations can change rapidly—always check with your pharmacy for real-time availability.

    Current Availability Overview

    Semaglutide (Wegovy/Ozempic)

    Mostly Available

    Supply has largely stabilized for most doses. Starter doses (0.25mg, 0.5mg) are widely available. Higher maintenance doses (1.7mg, 2.4mg) have occasional regional shortages. The new 7.2mg dose is in limited initial distribution.

    Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound)

    Some Doses Limited

    Eli Lilly has expanded manufacturing capacity. Lower doses (2.5mg, 5mg) are generally available. Higher doses (10mg, 12.5mg, 15mg) may have intermittent availability in some regions. Supply is expected to normalize fully by mid-2026.

    Compounded Semaglutide

    Available (Regulatory Changes Pending)

    FDA regulatory actions are affecting some compounding pharmacies. Availability varies significantly by state and pharmacy. Patients using compounded products should have contingency plans in place.

    Understanding the Shortage Timeline

    The GLP-1 shortage began in 2022 when demand for semaglutide and tirzepatide outpaced manufacturing capacity. Both Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly have invested billions in expanding production facilities, and these investments are beginning to bear fruit.

    2022-2023Severe shortages, most doses affected
    2024Improving but inconsistent availability
    2025Starter doses normalized, higher doses improving
    2026Most doses available, new formulations ramping up

    What to Do If Your Medication Is Unavailable

    Check multiple pharmacies

    Availability varies between pharmacies even in the same city. Call your pharmacy, check nearby options, and consider mail-order pharmacies which may have different supply chains.

    Contact your provider about alternatives

    Your provider can prescribe a temporary alternative dose, switch you between semaglutide and tirzepatide, or provide a bridge medication. Do not simply skip doses without medical guidance.

    Ask about manufacturer programs

    Both Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly have patient access programs that may help with supply issues. Your pharmacy or provider can assist with enrollment.

    Consider compounded options as a bridge

    While brand-name medication is in shortage, compounded alternatives may be available through reputable compounding pharmacies. Discuss this option with your provider.

    Medical Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. Never change doses, skip injections, or switch medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Supply situations change rapidly—verify with your pharmacy for current availability.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is there still a GLP-1 shortage?

    The shortage situation has improved significantly from 2023-2024 peak shortages, but availability varies by medication, dose, and region. Semaglutide supply has largely stabilized, while some tirzepatide doses may have intermittent availability challenges. Check the FDA Drug Shortage Database for current status.

    What should I do if my medication is unavailable?

    Contact your provider immediately. Options include: trying a different pharmacy, switching to an available dose, temporary use of an alternative GLP-1, or considering compounded options. Do not skip doses without medical guidance—your provider can help manage transitions.

    Will compounded GLP-1 remain available?

    Compounded GLP-1 availability depends on FDA shortage declarations. When brand-name medications are in shortage, compounding pharmacies can legally produce alternatives. As shortages resolve, the FDA may restrict compounding of these medications.

    How can I prepare for potential supply disruptions?

    Fill prescriptions as soon as they are available (do not wait until you run out), establish relationships with multiple pharmacies, discuss backup plans with your provider, and keep your provider informed about any access issues.

    Need Help Accessing Your GLP-1 Medication?

    Our team navigates supply challenges to keep your treatment on track.

    Contact Us

    Sources & References

    1. Wilding JPH et al. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. NEJM 2021;384:989-1002.
    2. Jastreboff AM et al. Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity. NEJM 2022;387:205-216.
    3. Lincoff AM et al. Semaglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Obesity without Diabetes. NEJM 2023;389:2221-2232.
    4. FDA Prescribing Information for Wegovy (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide).

    Medically Reviewed

    TMRT

    Trimi Medical Review Team

    Clinical review workflow for GLP-1 safety, dosing, and access content

    Team-based medical review process documented in Trimi's Medical Review Policy

    Last reviewed: April 5, 2026

    Editorial Standards

    Trimi publishes patient education using a medical-review workflow, source-based claim checks, and dated updates for fast-changing pricing, access, and safety topics.

    Review our Editorial Policy and Medical Review Policy for more details about sourcing, updates, and reviewer attribution.

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