When You Can't Find Amphetamine, What Are Your Options?

The Amphetamine shortage has left millions of ADHD patients scrambling for their medication. If you've been unable to fill your prescription for Adderall, Adderall XR, or another Amphetamine product, you may be wondering: is there something else that works?

The answer is yes. While Amphetamine is an effective and popular treatment for ADHD, it's not the only option. Several alternative medications — both stimulant and non-stimulant — are FDA-approved for ADHD and may be easier to find right now.

Important: Never switch medications on your own. Always work with your doctor to find the right alternative for your specific needs.

What Is Amphetamine and How Does It Work?

Amphetamine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant classified as a Schedule II controlled substance. It works by increasing the release and blocking the reuptake of two key neurotransmitters — dopamine and norepinephrine — in the brain.

These chemicals play essential roles in attention, focus, motivation, and impulse control. By boosting their levels, Amphetamine helps people with ADHD concentrate, stay organized, and manage daily tasks more effectively.

Amphetamine is available in several formulations:

• Immediate-release (IR) tablets — Adderall, Evekeo (taken 1-3 times daily)
• Extended-release (XR) capsules — Adderall XR, Mydayis (taken once daily)
• Oral suspensions — Dyanavel XR, Adzenys ER
• Orally disintegrating tablets — Adzenys XR-ODT

For a deeper dive into how this medication works, see our article on Amphetamine's mechanism of action.

Alternative 1: Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin)

Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed alternative to Amphetamine for ADHD. Like Amphetamine, it's a CNS stimulant — but it works slightly differently. Instead of increasing the release of dopamine and norepinephrine, Methylphenidate primarily blocks their reuptake, keeping more of these neurotransmitters available in the brain.

Key facts about Methylphenidate:

• Brand names: Ritalin, Ritalin LA, Concerta, Focalin, Focalin XR, Daytrana (patch), Quillivant XR (liquid)
• DEA Schedule: Schedule II (same as Amphetamine)
• Available forms: IR tablets, ER tablets and capsules, transdermal patch, oral suspension
• Typical adult dose: 20-60 mg/day
• Common side effects: Decreased appetite, insomnia, headache, stomach pain, nervousness

Methylphenidate is often tried first in ADHD treatment. Some patients respond better to Methylphenidate than Amphetamine (and vice versa), so if you've only tried Amphetamine, Methylphenidate is a logical next step.

Availability: While Methylphenidate has also experienced some shortage issues, it's generally easier to find than Amphetamine in 2026 because it has a separate DEA production quota and is manufactured by many generic companies.

Alternative 2: Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)

Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) is actually a prodrug of dextroamphetamine — meaning your body converts it into the active form of Amphetamine after you take it. So why might it be easier to find?

Vyvanse has its own separate DEA quota and is manufactured by Takeda. While it has also faced availability challenges, it sometimes has better stock than generic Adderall depending on your area.

Key facts about Vyvanse:

• Brand name: Vyvanse (generic lisdexamfetamine became available in 2023)
• DEA Schedule: Schedule II
• Available forms: Capsules and chewable tablets
• Typical adult dose: 30-70 mg once daily
• Duration: Up to 14 hours
• Key advantage: Lower abuse potential due to prodrug design; smooth, long-lasting effect
• Also approved for: Binge Eating Disorder in adults

Generic Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) can cost as little as $30-$80 with a coupon, making it a reasonable option price-wise.

Alternative 3: Atomoxetine (Strattera)

If stimulants aren't an option for you — or if you prefer a non-controlled substance — Atomoxetine (Strattera) is worth discussing with your doctor.

Atomoxetine is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) approved for ADHD in children, adolescents, and adults. Unlike Amphetamine, it is not a controlled substance, which means:

• No DEA quota limitations on production
• Easier to prescribe (no special prescription requirements)
• No abuse potential
• Can be prescribed with refills

Key facts about Atomoxetine:

• Brand name: Strattera (generics widely available)
• DEA Schedule: Not scheduled
• Typical adult dose: 40-100 mg/day
• Common side effects: Nausea, dry mouth, decreased appetite, insomnia, constipation
• Time to work: 4-6 weeks for full effect (unlike stimulants which work immediately)

Important consideration: Atomoxetine takes several weeks to reach full effectiveness, so it's not ideal for patients who need immediate symptom relief. However, it's a strong option for patients who can't take stimulants due to substance abuse history, anxiety, or cardiovascular concerns.

Generic Atomoxetine is widely available and typically costs $15-$50 per month with a coupon.

Alternative 4: Viloxazine (Qelbree)

Viloxazine (Qelbree) is a newer non-stimulant medication approved for ADHD. Like Atomoxetine, it works on norepinephrine — but it has a slightly different mechanism and is sometimes better tolerated.

Key facts about Viloxazine:

• Brand name: Qelbree
• DEA Schedule: Not scheduled
• Approved for: ADHD in children (6+) and adults
• Available forms: Extended-release capsules
• Typical adult dose: 200-400 mg once daily
• Common side effects: Nausea, headache, drowsiness, decreased appetite, insomnia

Availability note: Qelbree is a brand-name medication without a generic equivalent yet, so it's more expensive (often $300+ without insurance). However, the manufacturer offers a savings program that can reduce costs significantly for eligible patients.

How to Decide Which Alternative Is Right for You

Choosing an Amphetamine alternative depends on several factors:

• Your response to stimulants: If you've done well on Amphetamine, another stimulant (Methylphenidate or Vyvanse) may be the best switch.
• Substance abuse history: If there's a concern about misuse, non-stimulants like Atomoxetine or Viloxazine may be preferred.
• Cardiovascular health: Non-stimulants may be safer for patients with heart conditions.
• Insurance coverage: Check your plan's formulary — some alternatives may be better covered than others.
• Cost: Generic Methylphenidate and Atomoxetine are typically the most affordable options.

Talk to your doctor about these factors. You can also check how to find Amphetamine in stock in case it becomes available in your area before you need to switch.

Final Thoughts

Not being able to fill your Amphetamine prescription is stressful — especially when your daily functioning depends on it. But you have options. Whether it's trying another stimulant like Methylphenidate or Vyvanse, or exploring non-stimulant treatments like Atomoxetine or Viloxazine, there's a good chance your doctor can find something that works for you.

In the meantime, keep checking for Amphetamine availability using Medfinder, and stay up to date with the latest shortage updates. You can also learn more about what Amphetamine is and how it's used to have informed conversations with your healthcare provider.