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Key Takeaways

The country’s supply ofAdderall, a stimulant commonly used to treat symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactive disorder (ADHD), is falling short of demand, as both patients and pharmacists have reported shortages. In fact, a recent survey from the National Community Pharmacists Association found that more than six in 10 small pharmacies report having difficulty obtaining Adderall.

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., the largest supplier of Adderall in the United States, has reported “supply disruptions” due to “packaging capacity constraints” affecting both branded andgeneric Adderall.Still, the FDA has not announced an Adderall shortage.

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However,Howard Weeks, MD, chief medical officer at Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center, says he’s spoken with the American Society of Health System Pharmacists, who maintain a list of medication shortages in the US Adderall and its generic versions are on that list, and ASHP says they’re monitoring it.

Guochuan Emil Tsai, MD, PhDPrior to the unprecedented surge of diagnoses during the pandemic, ADHD has been historically underrecognized.

Guochuan Emil Tsai, MD, PhD

Prior to the unprecedented surge of diagnoses during the pandemic, ADHD has been historically underrecognized.

“What gets really complicated in the world of pharmaceuticals is who is actually producing the pills,” Weeks says. “Oftentimes a manufacturer subcontracts with another manufacturer to make a medication thus if one producer has a problem it can have ripple effects across many companies. The short answer is we just don’t know. There are estimates that things will improve in September/October.”

Medications to Treat ADHD in Children and Adults

Examining Overprescription

Neuroscientist and founding CEO of SyneuRxGuochuan Emil Tsai, MD, PhD, notes that Adderall is currently being prescribed more than ever. According toBloombergreporting, amphetamine sales surged more in the second quarter of 2021 than they had in nearly a decade.And when demand increases while supply stays the same, we’re left with a shortage.

“Prior to the unprecedented surge of diagnoses during the pandemic, ADHD has been historically underrecognized as one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood that often lasts well into adulthood,” Tsai says.

Some attribute this increase in diagnoses tosocial media, as more people are being exposed to symptoms of ADHD through apps like TikTok and Instagram. When those symptoms resonate with someone, they’re likely to turn to their primary care doctor for medication, Tsai says. But this has created an entirely new issue.

“When a patient seeks medication from their provider, the provider may not always take into account the context of the patient,” Tsai says. “They may not have the training nor the understanding that ADHD does not exist in a vacuum. It can often coincide with substance abuse, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, etc.”

Tsai also notes that online mental health care start-ups, many of which popped up during the pandemic, have made medication more accessible than ever. And Teva representatives have reported a direct link between the increase in demand for Adderall and these mental telehealth companies.

Guochuan Emil Tsai, MD, PhDDuring the pandemic, relaxed rules requiring that patients see a provider in-person before the controlled substance can be prescribed may very well be a contributing factor to overprescription.

During the pandemic, relaxed rules requiring that patients see a provider in-person before the controlled substance can be prescribed may very well be a contributing factor to overprescription.

“During the pandemic, relaxed rules requiring that patients see a provider in-person before the controlled substance can be prescribed may very well be a contributing factor to overprescription,” Tsai says.

“It’s crucial for young patients to seek out psychiatrists or child psychiatrists for their diagnoses,” Tsai says. “They should look for providers who diagnose holistically based on clinical science, with understanding, with empathy and with discretion.”

What to Know About Adderall Addiction

Coping Through the Shortage

Tsai recommends speaking with your doctor or another specialist to discuss medical alternatives, as Adderall and its generic versions are not the only options for managing symptoms of ADHD.

“Adderall can have undesirable side effects and abuse potential, which is why many people turn to safer, natural alternatives or non-pharmacological therapy,” Tsai says.

Experts also recommend drinking plenty of fluids, eating healthy meals, getting some exercise, and giving yourself time to rest and recuperate if you’re experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Over-the-counter painkillers and sleep-aids can also provide some relief.

What This Means For YouThe Adderall shortage may continue for months. If you are affected, talk with your mental health care provider about potential alternatives as soon as possible.

What This Means For You

The Adderall shortage may continue for months. If you are affected, talk with your mental health care provider about potential alternatives as soon as possible.

The Reality of Getting Diagnosed With ADHD in Adulthood

5 SourcesVerywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.National Community Pharmacists Association.Survey of community pharmacy economic pressures 2022 report.Bloomberg.Teva is facing Adderall supply disruptions as demand for ADHD drug soars.Bloomberg.ADHD drugs are convenient to get online. Maybe too convenient.The Verge.Telehealth startup Cerebral under investigation over prescriptions for controlled substances.American Addiction Centers.Adderall withdrawal: Timeline and symptoms.

5 Sources

Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.National Community Pharmacists Association.Survey of community pharmacy economic pressures 2022 report.Bloomberg.Teva is facing Adderall supply disruptions as demand for ADHD drug soars.Bloomberg.ADHD drugs are convenient to get online. Maybe too convenient.The Verge.Telehealth startup Cerebral under investigation over prescriptions for controlled substances.American Addiction Centers.Adderall withdrawal: Timeline and symptoms.

Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

National Community Pharmacists Association.Survey of community pharmacy economic pressures 2022 report.Bloomberg.Teva is facing Adderall supply disruptions as demand for ADHD drug soars.Bloomberg.ADHD drugs are convenient to get online. Maybe too convenient.The Verge.Telehealth startup Cerebral under investigation over prescriptions for controlled substances.American Addiction Centers.Adderall withdrawal: Timeline and symptoms.

National Community Pharmacists Association.Survey of community pharmacy economic pressures 2022 report.

Bloomberg.Teva is facing Adderall supply disruptions as demand for ADHD drug soars.

Bloomberg.ADHD drugs are convenient to get online. Maybe too convenient.

The Verge.Telehealth startup Cerebral under investigation over prescriptions for controlled substances.

American Addiction Centers.Adderall withdrawal: Timeline and symptoms.

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