Lidocaine 5% patches have been one of the more challenging categories to stay covered on over the past several months.
While not always formally listed as a widespread shortage, real-world access has been inconsistent—driven by manufacturing delays, allocation practices, and broader supply chain pressures that continue to affect the pharmaceutical market.
Even heading into 2026, some manufacturers have reported backorders or uncertain resupply timelines, reinforcing what many pharmacies have already experienced: availability can change quickly, and not always predictably.
Why Lidocaine Patches Matter
Practical Dermatology identifies lidocaine as playing an important role in pain management, particularly as a non-opioid option.
They work by blocking nerve signals in the area where they’re applied, helping relieve localized pain from conditions like post-herpetic neuralgia and other chronic pain issues.
As demand for non-opioid pain solutions continues to grow, lidocaine patches remain a go-to option for both prescribers and patients. That demand has been reflected in pricing trends as well, with costs rising in recent years alongside increased utilization.
What We’re Seeing Right Now
The broader picture hasn’t fully stabilized, but it is shifting.
Across the market, lidocaine products have faced ongoing pressure from supply constraints and rising demand, contributing to tighter availability and upward pricing movement. At the same time, pockets of improved availability are starting to emerge.
That creates a window—where supply is stronger than it has been, but demand and pricing pressure haven’t eased.
What This Means for Pharmacies
For pharmacies, this is less about reacting to a shortage and more about timing.
Categories like lidocaine patches don’t always move in clean cycles. Supply can tighten quickly, and once it does, it can be difficult to recover coverage without paying significantly higher prices or navigating allocation.
When availability improves, even temporarily, it’s often the best opportunity to get ahead of that cycle.
Where Masters Fits In
Right now, Masters is in a much better position on lidocaine 5% patches than we’ve been in recent months.
We’re seeing:
- Improved availability to support ongoing demand
- Competitive pricing relative to a market that continues to move upward
- Consistent movement as customers return to the category
While order limits still apply based on current supply conditions, this is a meaningful shift compared to the constraints many pharmacies have been working through.
If lidocaine patches are part of your regular dispensing mix, this is a good opportunity to review current options while supply is in a stronger spot.
