Most patients assume that their pharmacy always has their medication in stock. While this is usually true, it can come as a surprise when a patient goes to fill a prescription, and the pharmacist informs them that their medication isn’t currently available.
Your pharmacy may not have the medication to fill your prescription because:
- They are waiting for a shipment
- Your medication has been discontinued
- There is a disruption in the production of your medication
What can you do if your pharmacy is out of your medication?
If You Can, Wait Until Your Medication Will be Available
Ask your pharmacist when they’ll have your medication available and how soon they can fill your prescription. If you have a few days of your medication left, and you can wait for your pharmacy to fill your prescription, this may be a good option for you. You can also ask your pharmacy if they can mail your medication to your home when it is available.
Ask Your Pharmacist How They Can Help You
If your pharmacy is a chain (like CVS, Walgreens, etc.), your pharmacist can search to see if another location may have your medication in stock. If there isn’t a location of the same pharmacy that has your medication in stock, you may need to call around to different pharmacies. Keep in mind that different insurance providers work with certain pharmacies, not all of them. You will want to make sure that any pharmacy you work with is covered by your insurance plan. If you’ll be getting your prescription from a different pharmacy, you’ll need to work with your current pharmacy to transfer your prescription.
It’s possible that even if your pharmacy cannot fill your complete prescription, they may be able to partially fill your prescription. In this case, your pharmacist may be able to give you a partial supply of your medication while they wait for their shipment. They will then give you the rest of the supply to fulfill your prescription when it arrives.
Check the Manufacturer’s Website
Many times, manufacturers of brand-name prescription medications have a place on their website that helps patients find their medication at a pharmacy near them. If you’re having trouble finding your medication, visit the manufacturer’s website. You can also contact the drug manufacturer directly through their patient assistance programs. You’ll also find this information on their website.
Call Your Doctor
If your pharmacy won’t have your medication for a few weeks or months because it has been discontinued or if there is a problem with production, call your doctor. Your doctor will be able to prescribe you a different medication that can help you in the same way as your current medication.
It’s very important to work together with your doctor when you need help finding your medication or finding an alternative to your medication. Do not make any changes to your medication without consulting your doctor.