When You Can't Find Azstarys, You Still Have Options

Getting prescribed a medication that works for your ADHD — and then not being able to fill it — is incredibly frustrating. If Azstarys has been working well for you but you can't find it at any pharmacy near you, it's time to talk to your doctor about alternatives.

This guide covers what Azstarys is, how it works, and four real alternatives that your doctor might consider if you can't fill your Azstarys prescription. Every medication listed here is FDA-approved for ADHD and is a legitimate option — not a guess.

What Is Azstarys?

Azstarys is a brand-name ADHD medication approved for patients 6 years and older. It's a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant manufactured by Corium. It was approved by the FDA in 2021.

Azstarys contains two active ingredients:

• Serdexmethylphenidate (SDX) — a prodrug that's slowly converted into Dexmethylphenidate in your body for long-lasting effects
• Dexmethylphenidate (d-MPH) — an immediate-release stimulant for quick symptom relief

This combination provides both fast onset and extended duration in a single daily capsule — typically lasting 13 hours or more in clinical trials. It's a Schedule II controlled substance.

For the full details, see our guides on what Azstarys is and how Azstarys works.

How Does Azstarys Work?

Azstarys works by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These are neurotransmitters that play key roles in attention, focus, and impulse control.

The Dexmethylphenidate component blocks the reuptake of these neurotransmitters, making more of them available in the brain. The Serdexmethylphenidate prodrug is gradually converted to Dexmethylphenidate in the GI tract, extending the medication's duration of action.

This is the same basic mechanism used by other methylphenidate-based ADHD medications like Ritalin, Concerta, and Focalin — but the prodrug technology is what makes Azstarys unique.

4 Alternatives to Azstarys for ADHD

If you can't find Azstarys, the following medications are commonly used alternatives. They all treat ADHD, though they differ in their active ingredients, duration of action, and availability. Always talk to your doctor before switching medications.

1. Focalin XR (Dexmethylphenidate Extended-Release)

Why it's a close alternative: Focalin XR contains the same active metabolite as Azstarys — Dexmethylphenidate. The difference is that Focalin XR uses a bead-based extended-release mechanism rather than a prodrug.

• Generic available: Yes — generic Dexmethylphenidate ER is widely available
• Duration: About 8-12 hours
• Dosage forms: Capsules from 5 mg to 40 mg
• Cost: Generic Dexmethylphenidate ER can cost as little as $30-$80 per month with a discount card

Because it shares the same active ingredient, Focalin XR is often the first alternative doctors suggest when Azstarys isn't available. The main difference is that Azstarys may provide slightly longer coverage due to its prodrug component.

2. Concerta (Methylphenidate Extended-Release)

Why it's a good alternative: Concerta is one of the most established extended-release methylphenidate medications. It uses a unique OROS (osmotic-release) delivery system that provides smooth, consistent release over about 12 hours.

• Generic available: Yes — generic Methylphenidate ER is available from multiple manufacturers
• Duration: About 10-12 hours
• Dosage forms: Tablets from 18 mg to 54 mg
• Cost: Generic Methylphenidate ER typically costs $30-$100 per month

Note that Concerta contains racemic methylphenidate (both d- and l- forms), while Azstarys contains only the d- form (Dexmethylphenidate), which is considered the more pharmacologically active enantiomer.

3. Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine)

Why it's a good alternative: Like Azstarys, Vyvanse is a prodrug — but it's amphetamine-based rather than methylphenidate-based. Lisdexamfetamine is converted to Dextroamphetamine in the body, providing smooth, extended ADHD symptom control.

• Generic available: Yes — generic Lisdexamfetamine became available in 2023
• Duration: About 10-14 hours
• Dosage forms: Capsules and chewable tablets from 10 mg to 70 mg
• Cost: Generic Lisdexamfetamine costs approximately $30-$100 per month

Vyvanse is a good option if your doctor thinks an amphetamine-based medication might work for you. Some patients respond better to amphetamines than methylphenidate, and vice versa. The prodrug design also means it has a lower potential for nasal or injection misuse.

4. Jornay PM (Methylphenidate Delayed-Release)

Why it's unique: Jornay PM is taken at night and designed to provide symptom control starting first thing in the morning. This can be helpful for patients who struggle with morning routines or have trouble taking medication before school or work.

• Generic available: No — brand only as of 2026
• Duration: About 12+ hours, with onset in the early morning
• Dosage forms: Capsules from 20 mg to 100 mg
• Cost: As a brand-name medication, Jornay PM can cost $300-$400+ per month without insurance

Jornay PM is less commonly prescribed but may be worth discussing if you need early-morning ADHD control that other medications don't provide.

How to Decide Which Alternative Is Right for You

Switching ADHD medications isn't something you should do on your own. Here's what to discuss with your doctor:

• Why was Azstarys chosen for you? If it was because you specifically needed Dexmethylphenidate, Focalin XR is the closest match.
• How long did you need coverage? Azstarys provides 13+ hours. If all-day coverage matters, Vyvanse or Jornay PM may be better than shorter-acting options.
• Have you tried amphetamines before? If methylphenidate-based medications haven't worked well, your doctor might suggest switching to an amphetamine like Vyvanse.
• What's your budget? Generic options like Dexmethylphenidate ER and Lisdexamfetamine are significantly cheaper than brand-name Azstarys or Jornay PM.

For help finding a prescriber who's experienced with these medications, see our guide on finding a doctor who can prescribe Azstarys.

Don't Give Up on Finding Azstarys

Before switching medications, it's worth trying to find Azstarys. Use Medfinder to check real-time pharmacy availability, try independent pharmacies, and ask your doctor about dose flexibility. Our guide on how to find Azstarys in stock has step-by-step tips.

Final Thoughts

Not being able to fill your Azstarys prescription doesn't mean you have to go without ADHD treatment. Focalin XR, Concerta, Vyvanse, and Jornay PM are all legitimate alternatives that your doctor can prescribe. The key is having an honest conversation with your prescriber about what's available, what's affordable, and what's most likely to work for you.

Your ADHD treatment shouldn't be interrupted by a supply problem. Talk to your doctor, explore your options, and use tools like Medfinder to stay on top of medication availability.