Vyvanse Shortage 2023 - What's Causing It and Coping Tips

The Vyvanse Shortage of 2023: What's Causing It and What Can You Do?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that nearly 10% of children and 4% of adults in the United States have ADHD.

For many people with ADHD, medication is an important part of treatment and helps improve focus, concentration, and impulse control. Two of the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications are Adderall and Vyvanse.

In recent years, there have been shortages of many ADHD medications, including Adderall. Now in 2023, a shortage of Vyvanse is emerging.

What is Vyvanse?

Vyvanse is a prescription stimulant medication used to treat ADHD in children ages 6 and up, adolescents, and adults. It was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2007.

The active ingredient in Vyvanse is lisdexamfetamine dimesylate. After being taken orally, it is converted by the body's natural metabolism into dextroamphetamine before it becomes active. This means it has a slower onset of action than Adderall.

Vyvanse is available in capsules and chewable tablets. It is usually taken once daily in the morning. Like other stimulants, it works by increasing the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which help regulate focus and attention.

Why is There a Shortage of Vyvanse in 2023?

In March 2022, Takeda, the company that manufactures brand-name Vyvanse, reported supply disruptions due to labor shortages on the manufacturing lines. The company stated that the shortage could last through 2023.

Other factors contributing to the Vyvanse shortage include:

• Increased demand - Diagnosis and treatment of ADHD has risen in recent years.
• Manufacturing and supply chain issues - The COVID-19 pandemic caused global disruptions.
• Shortage of generic amphetamines like Adderall - Some people may be switched to Vyvanse.
• Stockpiling and overprescribing - Hoarding of medications can reduce supplies.

How is the Vyvanse Shortage Impacting Patients?

For many patients relying on Vyvanse to manage their ADHD symptoms, the shortage is causing disruptions in care. Some of the impacts include:

• Difficulty filling prescriptions - Pharmacies may not have enough Vyvanse in stock.
• Higher out-of-pocket costs - Prices may rise as supplies are constrained.
• Disrupted treatment plans - Switching between medications suddenly can be problematic.
• Increased demand on doctors - More appointments may be needed to manage changes.
• Worsening of ADHD symptoms - Lack of medication can greatly impact focus and productivity.

Not being able to get your prescribed Vyvanse can be highly disruptive to work, school, and relationships. Some people may even turn to non-prescription stimulants as an alternative, which poses other health risks.

When Will the Vyvanse Shortage End?

It is not possible to say for certain when Vyvanse supplies will normalize again. As of early 2023, Takeda expects the shortages caused by manufacturing slowdowns to persist throughout the year. The supply chain issues disrupting generic amphetamines like Adderall could also take many more months to resolve.

Experts recommend being prepared for the Vyvanse shortage to potentially continue through the end of 2023 and into 2024. However, the severity may fluctuate over time and between different regions.

Takeda states they are working to increase Vyvanse production as quickly as possible while not sacrificing quality control or patient safety during the manufacturing process.

Coping With the Vyvanse Shortage: For Patients

If you are a Vyvanse patient having trouble getting your prescription filled, here are some tips:

• Contact your pharmacy ahead of time - They may be able to tell you when shipments arrive.
• Ask about backorders - Your prescription can stay on file until more comes in.
• Check multiple pharmacies - Call around to find who has supply.
• Consider using mail order - Home delivery services may have more availability.
• Talk to your doctor - They may be able to provide samples or help manage dose changes.
• Avoid stockpiling or overbuying - This can worsen shortages.
• Consider non-drug alternatives - Behavioral therapy, exercise, and meditation can help.

Stay in close contact with your doctor and pharmacy so you can get Vyvanse as soon as it becomes available. Be patient, flexible, and open to temporary medication adjustments if needed.

Coping With the Shortage: For Doctors

As a healthcare provider, here are some recommendations for managing patients during the Vyvanse shortage:

• Collaborate with pharmacies - Work together to reserve limited supplies for patients with the greatest need.
• Prescribe lower doses when possible - Using the minimally effective dose conserves medication.
• Avoid switching medications unnecessarily - Stability is important, so only make adjustments if essential.
• Consider extended-release alternatives - Options like Concerta, Ritalin LA, and Metadate CD can provide daylong symptom control.
• Provide non-drug therapy referrals - Recommend cognitive behavioral therapy, coaching, mindfulness, etc.
• Have open conversations - Clearly explain the situation and provide realistic timelines to patients.

Careful planning and clear communication with patients and pharmacies can help safely navigate patients through the shortage until Vyvanse availability improves.

The Outlook: When Will the Shortage End?

The Vyvanse shortage is expected to continue through most if not all of 2023 due to ongoing manufacturing capacity issues combined with growing prescription rates. Exact timelines are not available.

Takeda is working to increase production while maintaining quality standards. However, the company also notes it cannot control prescriber behavior, individual pharmacy supplies, or other external variables.

Patients should prepare for the possibility of continuing disruptions and work closely with their doctor and pharmacy. Stay in regular contact, be willing to consider alternative options if necessary, and do not stockpile medication.

With careful management, advocacy for increasing supplies, and collective effort, we can responsibly navigate through this shortage while minimizing the negative impacts on those relying on Vyvanse to effectively manage their ADHD.

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.