The Ongoing Adderall Shortage
Adderall is a stimulant medication that is commonly prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It helps improve focus and concentration in people with ADHD by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.
In recent years, there have been shortages of certain doses of Adderall off and on. This has made it difficult for some people to get their medication when they need it. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the main factors leading to Adderall shortages include:
- High demand - ADHD diagnoses have been increasing, leading to more Adderall prescriptions.
- Manufacturing and inventory issues - Drug companies have faced challenges producing enough Adderall to meet demand.
- Discontinuations - Some manufacturers have stopped making certain doses of Adderall.
The most recent shortage began around mid 2021 and has continued into 2022 and 2023. It has primarily affected the instant release forms of Adderall, especially the 10mg and 30mg doses. The extended release forms have been less impacted.
How Long Will the Shortage Last?
Unfortunately, there is no definite end in sight for the current Adderall shortage. The FDA is working with manufacturers to resolve production issues and increase supplies. However, new bottlenecks keep arising, from sourcing ingredients to packaging materials to labor shortages.
Experts estimate the shortage could last into 2024 or longer. The supply is expected to remain constrained until more manufacturers can produce Adderall to meet the high demand. Even then, any setback in production could quickly lead to depleted stocks.
Which Pharmacies Have Adderall in Stock?
With the shortage, Adderall has been tricky to find at many local pharmacies. Availability can vary from day to day, even hour to hour. Here are some tips on where you may still be able to fill your Adderall prescription:
- Independent pharmacies - Smaller independent pharmacies tend to have more flexibility with their medication orders. They can often get niche drugs that big chains might lack. Call around to ones in your area to check their stock.
- Grocery store pharmacies - Pharmacies located inside grocery store chains like Safeway, Kroger, and Albertsons are another good option to try.
- Costco pharmacies - Even if you aren't a member, you can use Costco pharmacies without a membership. Their high volume may make them more likely to have Adderall in stock.
- Online mail order pharmacies - Large mail order pharmacies like OptumRx and Express Scripts work directly with manufacturers. This gives them better access to constrained meds.
- Compound pharmacies - If regular Adderall is unavailable, compounding pharmacies can formulate personalized doses. However, compounded meds are often more expensive.
Tips for Finding Adderall Stock
Here are some additional tips for hunting down that elusive Adderall prescription:
- Call around to different pharmacies to compare stock and availability.
- Ask if the pharmacy can order your prescription dose from their supplier or another location.
- Set up alerts to be notified when the pharmacy has Adderall in stock.
- Consider using mail order or switching pharmacies if needed for better medication access.
- Talk to your doctor about temporarily switching strength or dose if your usual Rx is hard to find.
Alternative Medications for Adderall Shortages
If Adderall is completely unavailable, there are some alternative prescription medications that work similarly for ADHD:
- Methylphenidate - Sold under brand names like Ritalin and Concerta, methylphenidate is another stimulant that improves focus and concentration.
- Dexmethylphenidate - The active enantiomer of methylphenidate, sold as Focalin, it works faster than traditional methylphenidate.
- Lisdexamfetamine - Lisdexamfetamine, or Vyvanse, is a prodrug converted into dextroamphetamine in the body.
- Mixed amphetamine salts - Adzenys XR and Evekeo both contain a blend of amphetamine salts like Adderall.
Discuss the benefits and side effects of these alternatives with your doctor to see if switching medications could work for you. Your doctor may need to adjust the dosage to achieve similar results to Adderall.
Non-Stimulant Medications
For some people who can't take stimulants, non-stimulant medications for ADHD may also be an option, such as:
- Atomoxetine (Strattera)
- Guanfacine (Intuniv)
- Clonidine (Kapvay)
However, these drugs don't work as well for some ADHD symptoms like hyperactivity. Consult your doctor about whether non-stimulants could be appropriate for you.
Coping Without Medication During Shortages
If getting a suitable ADHD medication is impossible due to the Adderall shortage, you can take some non-drug measures to help manage your symptoms:
- Use ADHD apps to set reminders, timers, schedules, and alerts on your phone.
- Make lists and use visual charts to stay organized and on task.
- Exercise regularly to help relieve excess energy from ADHD.
- Get therapy from an ADHD coach or psychologist for personalized coping methods.
- Practice mindfulness, meditation, or yoga for better mental focus.
- Limit distractions and take breaks to avoid overstimulation and burnout.
It also helps to communicate openly with your manager, teachers, or family members about how ADHD affects you. They may be able to make accommodations to help while your medication access is limited.
Talk to Your Doctor
Your doctor may also have suggestions for minimizing ADHD symptoms during medication shortages. Be sure to keep your provider updated on any difficulties getting your prescriptions or changes in your symptoms. Working closely with your doctor can help if Adderall remains hard to access in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is there an Adderall shortage?
The main reasons for the ongoing Adderall shortage include increased demand, supply chain disruptions limiting manufacturing, and some drug companies discontinuing certain doses. Production has not kept up with the rising number of Adderall prescriptions.
How long will the 2022/2023 Adderall shortage last?
There is no clear end to the shortage in sight right now. Experts expect constrained supplies of some Adderall doses to continue through 2023 and likely into 2024 until more production capacity comes online.
What generic Adderall is available during the shortage?
The branded version made by Shire has been most impacted. Some generic versions made by companies like Teva and Sandoz may still be sporadically available, but widespread demand makes generics difficult to obtain as well.
Can my doctor prescribe something else instead of Adderall?
Yes, your doctor may be able to prescribe an alternative medication like Ritalin, Focalin, Vyvanse, or a non-stimulant drug if Adderall is not available. Discuss the best option for managing your ADHD symptoms.
Where can I find discount cards for Adderall?
The manufacturers of Adderall offer savings cards that you can download and take to the pharmacy to save on your prescription. There are also universal discount cards and coupons from websites like GoodRx that provide discounts on Adderall and other medications.
Is Adderall available online without a prescription?
No, Adderall cannot legally be obtained without a valid prescription. Purchasing prescription Adderall online without a prescription is unsafe and illegal.
FAQs
How can I save money on Adderall during the shortage?
If you have insurance, use it to get the lowest copay. Otherwise, use discount cards and coupons from websites like GoodRx and WellRx to get the best discounts. Splitting higher doses or asking for double prescriptions can also potentially lower costs.
Why is the generic Adderall shortage as bad as the brand shortage?
Generic manufacturers source the drug ingredients from the same places as brand companies. When core ingredients are constrained, it tightens supplies of generics too. Plus, strong demand makes any available generics scarce.
Are ADHD drug shortages common in the US?
Yes, ADHD medication shortages happen somewhat regularly in recent years, but the ongoing shortage starting in 2021 has been particularly acute and long-lasting compared to previous shortages.
Does the FDA regulate drug shortages?
The FDA tracks and monitors shortages of critical medications. However, they do not have the authority to force companies to produce drugs or allocate scarce supplies. They can only work collaboratively with manufacturers.
How long do other stimulant drugs like Ritalin last?
Methylphenidate stimulants like Ritalin tend to be effective for 3 to 5 hours, similar to Adderall’s duration. Extended release versions like Concerta last 8-12 hours. Duration varies by person based on metabolism.