Is Adderall IR still in shortage in 2026? Get the latest update on the Adderall shortage, costs, new supply developments, and how to find it in stock.
The Adderall shortage is now one of the longest-running prescription drug shortages in recent American history. What started with an FDA shortage declaration in October 2022 has stretched into 2026, affecting millions of patients who depend on this medication for ADHD and narcolepsy.
If you take Adderall IR and have struggled to fill your prescription, this post will give you the latest information on what's happening, what's changed, and what you can do about it.
As of early 2026, yes — Adderall IR remains in an active shortage, though the situation has improved compared to the worst periods of 2023 and 2024.
Here's what's changed recently:
Despite these improvements, spot shortages persist at individual pharmacies, particularly for certain dosage strengths (20 mg and 30 mg tend to be hardest to find). Availability varies significantly by region.
Even with increased production quotas, several factors continue to create supply gaps:
When the DEA raises production quotas, it takes months for manufacturers to ramp up production, produce new batches, and distribute them to pharmacies. The October 2025 and January 2026 quota increases are positive, but their full impact won't be felt until mid-2026.
ADHD diagnoses continue to rise, particularly among adults. The expanded use of telehealth for ADHD evaluations — which accelerated during COVID-19 — has kept prescription volumes well above pre-pandemic levels.
Drug distributors allocate controlled substances to pharmacies based on historical ordering patterns. Pharmacies that are newer or have seen recent increases in demand may not receive enough supply to meet their patients' needs.
For a deeper dive into the causes, see our post on why Adderall IR is so hard to find.
Cost remains a concern for many patients, especially those without insurance or with high-deductible plans:
For detailed savings strategies, check out our guide on how to save money on Adderall IR.
A few developments are worth noting:
Generic versions of Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine) launched in 2023, making this once-daily amphetamine prodrug significantly more affordable. If Adderall IR is unavailable, generic Vyvanse may be a viable alternative — ask your doctor.
More generic manufacturers are producing Amphetamine Salts IR, which should help diversify the supply chain and reduce the impact of any single manufacturer's production issues.
There is ongoing advocacy and legislative discussion about reforming how the DEA sets controlled substance production quotas. While no major legislation has passed as of early 2026, the DEA's recent willingness to increase quotas significantly is a positive sign.
Here are the most effective strategies:
For a complete playbook, read our guide on how to find Adderall IR in stock near you.
The Adderall IR shortage is entering its fourth year, but there are genuine signs of improvement. The DEA has increased production quotas meaningfully, generic manufacturers are expanding production, and awareness of the issue has never been higher.
That said, the shortage is not over. Patients should continue to plan ahead, use tools like Medfinder, communicate openly with their prescribers, and explore alternatives if needed.
You're not alone in this — and the situation is getting better. Stay informed, stay proactive, and don't hesitate to advocate for yourself.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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