We have recently seen some patients struggling to find Adderall. Last October the Food and Drug Administration announced there was a nationwide Adderall shortage. Some of the problems that created this shortage started with production issues at pharmaceutical companies, but it has also been driven by a supposed shortage of ingredients that go into the drug. And more recently we have seen producers of generic Adderall assert that they’re struggling to get the necessary ingredients. However, the Drug Enforcement Administration maintains that there should in fact be no shortage of the necessary ingredients.
As we have seen demand for Adderall spike, it’s indeed been tough for some patients to find the drug, challenging their ability to maintain optimal care. Data from research company IQVIA shows that the demand for Adderall has boomed, with prescriptions rising from about 35 million in 2019 to 45 million in 2022.
There are other medications approved by the FDA for ADHD and similar conditions, including Vyvanse, Concerta and Kapvay. Patients who struggle with ADHD should consult with their physician and other healthcare providers to make sure they have access to not only the appropriate medications, but are also in a position to benefit from other supportive treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
