Managing ADHD During an Adderall Shortage

Tips for Finding Adderall When Supplies Are Low

Adderall is a commonly prescribed stimulant medication used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. It can help improve focus, concentration, and alertness in those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, ongoing Adderall shortages have made it difficult for some people to get their medication.

If your pharmacy says they don't have Adderall in stock and you're having trouble getting your prescription filled, there are some steps you can take to increase your chances of locating a supply.

Understand the Reasons for Adderall Shortages

In order to find Adderall when supplies are low, it helps to understand the underlying causes of the shortages:

• Manufacturing and distribution issues - Drug companies have faced COVID-related delays and labor shortages.
• Increased demand - More ADHD diagnoses and prescriptions have driven up demand.
• Supply chain problems - Getting ingredients and materials has been challenging.
• Regulatory delays - New generic applications have been slowed down by the FDA.
• Ongoing shortage of amphetamine salts - A key ingredient has been in short supply.

Knowing its an industry-wide issue can help you plan ahead and be proactive in finding your medication.

Check With Your Prescribing Doctor

Your doctor may be able to help if your usual pharmacy is out of Adderall. They may:

• Contact the pharmacy to find out which days/times new shipments arrive.
• Authorize an emergency refill or partial fill.
• Presribe an equivalent generic version that may be easier to find.
• Write a prescription for an alternate medication if needed.

Staying in touch with your doctor keeps them informed and allows them to assist you in managing your medication supply.

Ask Your Pharmacist for Help

Pharmacists have insight into medication inventory and suppliers. When your pharmacy is out of Adderall, ask if they can:

• Add you to a waiting list and call when Adderall orders come in.
• Order it from an alternate supplier or wholesaler.
• Transfer your prescription to another branch that has it in stock.
• Reserve a partial fill or emergency supply for you.

Pharmacists are medication experts and can be invaluable partners in finding Adderall when local supplies are low.

Search Multiple Local Pharmacies

Don't give up after calling just one or two pharmacies. Be prepared to call around to find Adderall in stock:

• Check chain pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid and Walmart.
• Contact grocery store pharmacies and retailers like Kroger, Target and Costco.
• Ask independent community pharmacies.
• Check availability at outpatient and hospital pharmacies.

Expanding your search makes it more likely you'll locate a pharmacy with supply of your medication.

Leverage Online Pharmacy Tools

Some helpful online resources can aid your search for Adderall:

• Pharmacy websites - Many have pharmacy locator tools and in-stock alerts.
• GoodRx - Shows local pharmacy prices and drug availability.
• NeedyMeds - Finds coupons and assistance programs.
• DrugShortages.org - Reports FDA shortage information.

Websites like these can provide up-to-date Adderall stock details to guide your pharmacy search.

Ask About Ordering From Other Locations

If no pharmacies nearby have Adderall in stock, some options include:

• Ordering from out-of-town - Large chains may ship from another in-stock branch.
• Online pharmacies - Retailers like CVS and Capsule offer delivery.
• Telehealth services - Providers like Cerebral and Done may prescribe and ship.

While not ideal, ordering from afar may be necessary to get your medication until shortages resolve.

Consider Temporary Use of Adderall Alternatives

When Adderall can't be found, talk to your doctor about temporarily using another medication such as:

• Methylphenidate products (Ritalin, Concerta)
• Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin)
• Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)
• Amphetamine salts (Adzenys, Evekeo)
• Atomoxetine (Strattera)
• Guanfacine (Intuniv)
• Clonidine (Kapvay)

Alternate ADHD medications may help bridge the gap until Adderall is more readily available.

Apply for Prescription Assistance If Needed

If you are struggling to pay for Adderall, prescription assistance programs may help:

• Manufacturers Shire Cares offers brand-name Adderall savings.
• Non-profits Groups like NeedyMeds and PPARx provide discounts.
• State programs Many states have ADHD medication assistance funds.
• Partnership for Prescription Assistance Matches people with public and private programs.

Don't let cost prevent you from getting your prescribed Adderall. Seek assistance if needed.

Consider Your Options if Shortages Persist

Working closely with your doctor gives you alternatives if Adderall remains difficult to find:

• Trying non-stimulant medications like Strattera or Intuniv.
• Adjusting your Adderall dosage if you can get partial fills.
• Getting the instant release form, which is sometimes easier to get.
• Seeing if compounding pharmacies can make a substitute.
• Exploring lab-created analogs like Evekeo if approved by your doctor.

While not perfect, adjusting treatment approaches may be necessary until ample supplies return.

Locating Adderall When It's Scarce Can Take Work and Patience

The Adderall shortage has created difficulties, but with some diligence, communication and creativity, finding a supply is often possible. Set up refill reminders, use pharmacy locator tools, leverage your doctor and pharmacist's help, and consider alternate therapies as needed. With preparation and advocacy, you can hopefully gain access to the ADHD medication you need.

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.