“It’s Out of Stock” Again? What to Do, and How We Keep Your Medication on the Shelf

If your pharmacy tells you your medication is out of stock, you have options today: ask them to transfer the prescription to a pharmacy that has it, ask about a partial fill, or ask your doctor about an equivalent. To keep it from happening again, use a pharmacy that orders your medication before your refill date.

Why pharmacies run out

• Store-level ordering. Busy stores often order based on averages rather than on the specific patients due for a refill this week.
• Wholesaler delays. Some medications arrive only on certain days.
• True shortages. Some drugs are in national shortage. The FDA keeps a public list, and no pharmacy can fully avoid those.

What to do today

1. Ask how many doses they have. A partial fill may cover you until the rest arrives.
2. Ask for a transfer. A pharmacy that has it in stock can transfer the prescription and fill it the same day. Call us at (516) 304-5038 with the medication name and strength and we will tell you if we have it.
3. Ask about equivalents. A different strength (for example, two tablets of a lower strength) or a different manufacturer’s generic may be available. That usually needs your doctor’s approval, and we can call the office for you.
4. Don’t stop without advice. For some medications, missing doses is risky. If you are about to run out, tell the pharmacist you are out, not just low.

How we keep it from happening

• We track every patient’s refill date and order ahead of it.
• We call you if a medication is on backorder, before your refill date, not at the counter.
• If there is a shortage, we check other wholesalers and work with your doctor on an alternative.
• We deliver free, so once it is in, you don’t have to come back for it.

A note on GLP-1 medications

Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Zepbound supply can change week to week. Call or text us to check today’s availability. See filling your GLP-1 prescription in Forest Hills.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if my pharmacy is out of my medication?

Ask about a partial fill, ask them to transfer the prescription to a pharmacy that has it, or ask your doctor about an equivalent strength or product.

Can another pharmacy fill my prescription if mine is out of stock?

Yes. The prescription can be transferred to another pharmacy that has it in stock, usually the same day.

How do I avoid running into out-of-stock problems?

Use a pharmacy that tracks your refill date and orders ahead, and sign up for automatic refills.

This article is for general educational purposes and does not replace individualized medical advice. Speak with your pharmacist, physician or other healthcare professional about what is right for you.