Nelson Vergel
Founder, ExcelMale.com
Which U.S. States Require a Prescription for Syringes?
A Quick Reference Guide for TRT and Injectable Medication UsersIf you self-inject testosterone or other medications, you need a reliable supply of syringes and needles. While most U.S. states allow adults to purchase syringes without a prescription, a handful of states still impose restrictions. Knowing the rules in your state can save you time, frustration, and potential legal issues.
Below is a summary of the current landscape as of early 2026.
States That Require a Prescription
Only two states broadly prohibit the retail sale of syringes without a prescription:State | Details |
Delaware | State law prohibits the retail sale of syringes without a prescription. |
Tennessee | State regulations require a prescription for syringe purchases. |
States That Require a Prescription for Quantities Over 10
Several states allow you to buy up to 10 syringes without a prescription, but require one for larger quantities. For TRT patients who inject weekly or more frequently, this threshold matters:State | Details |
Connecticut | Prescription required for more than 10 syringes. |
Maine | Prescription required for more than 10 syringes. |
Minnesota | Prescription required for more than 10 syringes. |
New Hampshire | Prescription required for more than 10 syringes. |
New Jersey | Prescription required for more than 10 syringes. Legislation has been proposed to change this. |
States with Special Conditions
State | Details |
Illinois | OTC sales are allowed, but a pharmacist must verify photo ID. Many retailers effectively require a prescription. |
New York | Adults 18+ can purchase without a prescription under the Expanded Syringe Access Program (ESAP), but some retailers still require one. |
California | Pharmacies may sell to adults 18+ without a prescription. The current authorization is set to be reviewed by January 1, 2026. |
The Practical Reality: Pharmacy Policies vs. State Law
Even in states where buying syringes over the counter is perfectly legal, many pharmacies refuse to sell without a prescription. A 2025 Oregon State University study found that 43% of pharmacies surveyed would not sell syringes without a prescription—despite Oregon law allowing it. Similar patterns have been observed in Texas and other states. This means the legal right to buy syringes does not always translate into easy access at the pharmacy counter.Recommendations for ExcelMale Members
• Always ask your prescriber to include syringes and needles on your prescription. This eliminates any ambiguity regardless of which state you live in, and insurance may cover the cost.• If your pharmacy refuses to sell syringes without a prescription, try another pharmacy or consider online suppliers that ship to your state legally.
• Keep a copy of your prescription handy when purchasing syringes, especially if you travel between states.
• Consider compounding pharmacies like Empower Pharmacy, which can ship your medication along with the appropriate syringes and needles as part of your order.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently, and individual pharmacy policies may vary. Always verify the current regulations in your state before purchasing syringes. Last updated: February 2026.
