Adderall Shortage: Tips for Managing ADHD Symptoms

Tips for Finding Adderall When Supplies Are Low

Adderall is a common prescription medication used to treat ADHD symptoms. But ongoing Adderall shortages can make it difficult to fill your prescription. If your regular pharmacy is out of stock, don't panic. There are strategies you can use to find a pharmacy that has your medication available.

Understand the Shortages

Adderall shortages have been an ongoing issue for years due to high demand and tightly regulated production quotas. Shortages tend to be regional and temporary based on supply chain factors. Stay aware of the situation in your area.

Also be aware that shortages are more acute with generic Adderall IR (immediate release) versus brand name and XR (extended release) versions. You may have better luck finding brand name or XR formulations.

Ask About Reordering Timelines

Don't assume your pharmacy will be out of Adderall indefinitely. Ask when they expect to receive their next reorder if they are currently out of stock. Waiting a day or two could allow fresh supplies to arrive.

Independent pharmacies with greater flexibility in ordering may be able to restock more quickly than large chains. Check lead times before giving up on your regular pharmacy.

Inquire About Available Strengths

Even when pharmacies are out of your specific dose of Adderall, they may have other strengths in stock. Ask if having your prescription adjusted to an available dose is a possibility for the short term.

Getting a lower strength that you have to take more frequently could tide you over until your regular dose is back in stock.

Ask About Brand Versus Generic

Investigate whether the brand name version may be in stock even when the generics are out. Brand name Adderall XR is less prone to shortages than generic IR formulations.

The brand pills likely come at a higher cost. But paying more for a consistent supply may be worth it given the unpredictability of generic supplies.

Consider Other Locations of the Same Chain

If your regular pharmacy is part of a larger chain, check availability at other locations in your area before switching pharmacies. Inventory levels can vary between locations.

An online pharmacy search tool on the chain website or app can help you quickly check stock at neighboring stores. A short drive could get you the medication you need.

Ask Your Prescriber for Suggestions

Your doctor or psychiatrist's office deals with these shortages frequently. Call and ask if they have any recommendations on pharmacies that seem to have better Adderall supplies right now.

Offices allowing electronic prescriptions can also easily send your script to another location if needed. Leverage their experience in handling shortages.

Search Online pharmacy Inventory Databases

Websites like PharmacyChecker let you search current pharmacy inventory levels across multiple chains and local stores. Enter your zip code and dose to view real-time Adderall availability.

This helps remove the guesswork of calling around and can pinpoint a pharmacy near you that has your medication in stock.

Call Local Independent Pharmacies

Smaller independent pharmacies don't face the same large-scale supply chain constraints as major chains. Call trusted local pharmacies to check availability when the big retailers are out.

An independent pharmacy with more flexibility in sourcing may be able to get you the Adderall you need even during a shortage. Developing a relationship with them can provide future benefits.

Ask for Partial Fills

If no pharmacy has your full prescription amount, ask your pharmacist if they can partially fill the script. Getting a portion of your regular dose can help extend your supply.

Just be sure your prescriber is aware and approves before going this route. Never take leftover or extra Adderall without your doctor's oversight.

Alternative Medications If Adderall Is Unavailable

If you still can't get your Adderall prescription filled after exhausting all options, speak to your doctor about alternative medications that may help manage your ADHD in the short term.

Extended Release Amphetamine Salts

The active ingredients in brand name Adderall XR are mixed amphetamine salts. Another medication called Mydayis contains these same salts in an extended release formula that can potentially substitute for Adderall XR.

While not exactly the same, it may provide similar effects with less abuse potential due to the extended duration. Ask your prescriber if it could be appropriate for you.

Methylphenidate Products

Methylphenidate is another common stimulant used for ADHD treatment. Brand names include Ritalin and Concerta. This is a closely related medication that may help manage symptoms when Adderall is not available.

However, some patients do not respond as well to methylphenidate. Work with your doctor to see if a trial is worthwhile.

Dexmethylphenidate

Similar to methylphenidate, dexmethylphenidate is the active d-enantiomer isolated. Brand names are Focalin and Focalin XR. For some, effects may feel closer to Adderall than methylphenidate.

This makes dexmethylphenidate a potential alternative when Adderall cannot be found. Compare how you respond to see if this option could work for you.

Non-Stimulant Medications

For adults that don't tolerate stimulant medications well, non-stimulant options are available: Atomoxetine (Strattera), Clonidine, and Guanfacine are examples. These may be alternatives if stimulants are contraindicated or difficult to obtain.

However, non-stimulants may not provide the same level of symptom relief as Adderall for many patients. Response varies individually based on your specific case.

Coping Tips for Adderall Shortages

Along with alternative medications, implement these coping strategies to help manage ADHD symptoms when your Adderall prescription is hard to fill:

Optimize Existing Medication Supplies

If you have any remaining Adderall tablets, be extremely diligent about proper dosing and timing to avoid running out early. Make your limited supply last.

Consider using a pill case to pre-organize doses and prevent double-dosing errors. Take medication exactly as prescribed without diverting extra for other uses.

Keep Frequent Communication With Your Prescriber

Maintain ongoing contact with your prescribing doctor or psychiatrist to discuss your options. Let them know immediately if you are starting to run low on medication.

Stay engaged with your treatment provider for recommendations tailored to your situation. Together you can find solutions.

Use Non-Medical Coping Strategies

Implement lifestyle adaptations like schedule adjustments, workspace organization, exercise routines, mindfulness techniques and behavioral strategies to help compensate for medication gaps.

Your prescriber or ADHD coach can recommend personalized non-medical skills, tools and techniques to support your focus, productivity and impulse control while medication access is limited.

Identify Local Advocacy Resources

Local and national advocacy groups like CHADD may have resources to support those dealing with Adderall shortages. Consult them for advice and provider referrals.

Advocacy groups may also have ideas for working with legislators and regulators to improve future medication access and prevent shortages.

The Takeaway

With effort and some creative problem-solving, you can usually find a way to fill your Adderall prescription even when your regular pharmacy is out of stock. Tap all possible options, consider alternative meds, and implement non-medical coping strategies.

While Adderall shortages are incredibly frustrating, they are temporary supply chain issues. Stick with consistent treatment provider engagement, self-advocacy and medication management best practices to sucessfully navigate periods of limited medication access.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.