Coping with the Vyvanse Shortage: Will it End in 2023?

Navigating the Vyvanse Shortage in 2023

Vyvanse is a common medication used to treat ADHD symptoms in adults and children. It can be an effective way to help manage focus, concentration, and impulse control issues associated with ADHD.

However, in 2023, many patients are finding it difficult to fill their Vyvanse prescriptions due to shortages. This article will cover everything you need to know about the current Vyvanse shortage, including possible causes, when it may end, and coping strategies to deal with the lack of medication availability.

What is Causing the Vyvanse Shortage?

While the exact causes are unknown, industry experts believe there are likely a few key factors leading to the constrained Vyvanse supply:

• Manufacturing and production issues at facilities where Vyvanse is made.
• Supply chain problems impacting distribution to pharmacies.
• Increased demand for ADHD medications post-pandemic.
• Ongoing shortages of key ingredients used to manufacture Vyvanse.

All of these circumstances combined are making it very difficult for the company that produces Vyvanse, Takeda Pharmaceuticals, to meet demand.

When Will the Vyvanse Shortage End?

Unfortunately, there is no definite timeline for when the Vyvanse shortage may end. Takeda has stated they are working urgently to increase manufacturing capacity and supply.

However, experts believe the shortage could potentially last through 2023 and into 2024. The supply chain issues and increased prescription rates are ongoing trends that cannot easily be reversed overnight.

The best approach is to plan for the shortage to continue for the foreseeable future, at least for the next 6-12 months or longer. Stay in close contact with your pharmacist and doctor to monitor local availability.

Coping with the Vyvanse Shortage

If you are having trouble filling your Vyvanse prescription, there are some coping strategies to help you manage your ADHD symptoms:

• Ask your doctor about temporarily switching to a similar medication like Adderall or Ritalin while availability of Vyvanse is limited.
• Set up alerts with your pharmacy to notify you when they receive stock of Vyvanse.
• Look into having your prescription transferred to different pharmacies that may have better access to scarce supplies.
• Consider using prescription savings programs like GoodRx to get discounts and locate cheaper in-stock options near you.
• Ask your doctor for samples to help bridge gaps until you can obtain more of your medication.

While frustrating, do your best to remain patient and proactive. With some clever strategies and cooperation from your medical providers, you can get through this challenging shortage period.

Alternative Medications to Vyvanse

Switching to an alternative ADHD medication is one solution your doctor may recommend to overcome the lack of access to Vyvanse. Here are some common options:

Methylphenidate Products

Methylphenidate is the active ingredient in medications like Ritalin and Concerta. These stimulating drugs work similarly to Vyvanse and are often easier to find during shortages:

• Ritalin - Available as short and long-acting doses. Generic is affordable.
• Concerta - Long-acting pill that lasts 8-12 hours per dose.
• Daytrana - Transdermal daily patch applied to hip area.

Amphetamine Mix Products

Amphetamine mix drugs like Adderall contain a blend of amphetamine salts. These are chemically related to Vyvanses main active ingredient:

• Adderall - Most commonly prescribed amphetamine mixture medication.
• Adderall XR - Extended release Adderall lasts around 10 hours.
• Mydayis - Extended release amphetamine salts designed to provide 16 hours of symptom relief.

Non-Stimulant Medications

Non-stimulant medications for ADHD do not have the same chemical actions as Vyvanse. But they can still be helpful for some patients when stimulants are not available:

• Strattera - Selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor.
• Wellbutrin - May be prescribed off-label to treat ADHD.
• Clonidine - High blood pressure medication also used for ADHD.

Talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of temporarily switching medications so that you can find an alternative to get you through the Vyvanse shortage.

How Long Do Vyvanse Shortages Usually Last?

Previous shortages of Vyvanse over the past few years have lasted between 2-6 months on average before supply recovered and prescriptions could be consistently filled again.

However, experts are predicting the 2023 Vyvanse shortage could persist even longer, possibly more than 12 months, due to ongoing issues like ingredient scarcity and increased demand.

Make plans for an extended shortage lasting the majority if not all of 2023. Stay adaptable in coordinating with your doctor and pharmacy regularly.

Tips for Conserving Your Vyvanse Supply

If you still have access to at least some Vyvanse, you'll want to make it last as long as possible during this shortage period. Here are some tips to conserve your limited medication supply:

• Take your Vyvanse at the minimum effective dose as prescribed by your doctor to avoid waste.
• Avoid taking higher doses or double doses to increase focus. This will burn through your supply faster.
• See if your prescriber can write a smaller quantity on your prescription to match what pharmacies have in stock.
• Look into manufacturer coupons and rebates to lower your out-of-pocket costs for the reduced quantity.
• Create a daily, weekly and monthly pill organizer to carefully track dosages used.
• Store your Vyvanse properly away from heat, moisture and direct light to prevent degradation.

Careful monitoring and planning can help your limited Vyvanse supply last for as long as possible until the shortage situation improves.

Getting Vyvanse Prescriptions Filled During Shortages

Although difficult, it is still possible to get Vyvanse prescriptions filled during a shortage if you are proactive and flexible. Strategies to improve your chances include:

• Asking your doctor to write prescriptions for smaller quantities that are easier to fill.
• Staying on top of prescription refill due dates so you can start contacting pharmacies early.
• Expanding your pharmacy search for chains or independents further away that have better supply.
• Signing up for notifications and waitlists at pharmacies for incoming Vyvanse stock.
• Avoiding filling other non-essential medications to prioritize Vyvanse.
• Checking drug pricing sites like GoodRx often for discounts where Vyvanse is in-stock at lower prices.

It can be a process of trial and error, but solutions are usually available if you are flexible, patient and keep hunting for availability.

Risks of Vyvanse Shortages

Not being able to access your Vyvanse medication does come with some risks and drawbacks:

• ADHD symptoms like focus, motivation, and impulse control problems can worsen without treatment.
• Switching between different medications quickly can lead to side effects or dosing issues.
• Drug shortages may lead some to improperly ration doses or purchase medications through unreliable sources.
• The financial burden and access barriers can cause significant stress and hardship.

Be sure to closely monitor both yourself and any children you are caring for who are affected by the Vyvanse shortage. Communicate frequently with your medical providers for guidance and support.

Preparing For and Coping With Future ADHD Medication Shortages

The unfortunate reality is shortages of popular ADHD medications like Vyvanse may become more common. Here is some guidance both clinicians and patients can follow to be better prepared:

For Medical Professionals

Doctors, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and pharmacists play pivotal roles in supporting patients during drug shortages. Recommendations include:

• Proactively diversifying patient ADHD medication regimens now in anticipation of future shortages.
• Prescribing smaller 30-day fills versus 90-day supplies during shortages to ensure access.
• Maintaining open communication with patients about shortage impacts and alternatives.
• Allowing temporary medication switches as needed while adhering to safe prescribing practices.
• Providing and demystifying instructions for patients attempting to conserve scarce medications.

For Patients and Caregivers

As a patient dependent on ADHD medications, you can take more control during shortages by:

• Allowing flexibility with alternative medication options as recommended by your doctor.
• Asking providers to prescribe smaller supplies that are easier to fill.
• Avoiding stockpiling medications unless approved by your provider.
• Learning tips to safely space out and conserve doses when absolutely needed.
• Staying calm and patient - speak to your doctor instead of making drastic changes.

Preparing for potential shortages before they occur and maintaining open communication between patients and providers is key to safely weathering any storm.

The Bottom Line on Vyvanse Shortages

Vyvanse shortages in 2023 are creating very real hardships for many struggling with ADHD. While incredibly frustrating, remember that this situation is temporary.

Lean on your medical providers for help optimizing alternative medication options or stretching your available Vyvanse supply as safely as possible.

Identify local pharmacies with better inventory through persistence and services like prescription pricing tools. Don't be afraid to think outside the box.

With planning, patience, and effective communication, you can develop solutions to overcome ADHD medication access barriers. The shortage will end, but in the meantime, know there are always options to aid you or your loved ones in staying mentally healthy.

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.