A severe nationwide shortage of Adderall and generic amphetamine salts is affecting an estimated 5 million Americans with ADHD, with major pharmacy chains reporting they cannot fill prescriptions for weeks at a time.
The Shortage Details
- CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid all reporting limited stock
- Wait times: 2-6 weeks for refills in many areas
- Both brand-name and generic affected
- DEA manufacturing quotas blamed for supply constraints
What Patients Can Do
Doctors recommend calling multiple pharmacies, asking about alternative ADHD medications like Vyvanse or methylphenidate, and contacting manufacturers directly for patient assistance programs. The FDA has urged the DEA to increase production quotas.
