When Your Dextroamphetamine Prescription Can't Be Filled

You've tried your regular pharmacy. You've called around. You've used every trick in the book. But Dextroamphetamine is still nowhere to be found. If this sounds familiar, you're dealing with a problem that's affected millions of patients since the stimulant shortage began in late 2022.

Going without your ADHD or narcolepsy medication isn't just inconvenient — it can seriously disrupt your daily life, your work, and your health. The good news is that there are real alternatives that may work for you while Dextroamphetamine is hard to find.

Important: Never switch medications on your own. Always talk to your doctor or prescriber before making any changes to your treatment.

What Is Dextroamphetamine and How Does It Work?

Dextroamphetamine is a CNS stimulant that's FDA-approved to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. It works by increasing the levels of two key neurotransmitters — dopamine and norepinephrine — in the brain. This boost helps improve focus, attention, impulse control, and wakefulness.

It's available as immediate-release tablets (brand names Zenzedi, formerly Dextrostat), extended-release capsules (Dexedrine Spansule), and an oral solution (ProCentra). As a Schedule II controlled substance, it requires a new prescription each fill — no automatic refills.

For a deeper dive, see our full guide: What is Dextroamphetamine?

Alternatives to Dextroamphetamine

The alternatives below are real medications your doctor may consider. Each works a bit differently, and what's best depends on your specific needs, medical history, and what's available at your pharmacy.

1. Adderall (Mixed Amphetamine Salts)

Adderall contains a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts. Since Dextroamphetamine is actually one of its active ingredients, Adderall works in a very similar way — just with a slightly different pharmacological profile due to the mix of amphetamine isomers.

• Available as: Immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules (Adderall XR)
• Typical dose: 5-30 mg/day
• Pros: Very similar to Dextroamphetamine; widely prescribed
• Cons: Also affected by the stimulant shortage, though it may be easier to find in certain areas; slightly different side effect profile for some patients
• Availability note: Adderall and its generics are also in shortage, but availability can vary by location. Check Medfinder for current stock near you.

2. Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine)

Vyvanse is a prodrug, meaning your body converts it into Dextroamphetamine after you take it. The result is a smoother onset and longer-lasting effect, with potentially lower abuse potential.

• Available as: Capsules (20-70 mg) and chewable tablets
• Typical dose: 30-70 mg once daily
• Pros: Once-daily dosing; smoother effect; generic became available in 2023, improving access
• Cons: Higher cost than generic Dextroamphetamine; may not work as well for patients who need immediate-release dosing flexibility
• Availability note: Generic Lisdexamfetamine has improved availability compared to Dextroamphetamine and Adderall in many areas.

3. Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin)

Methylphenidate is a completely different stimulant from the amphetamine family. It works by primarily blocking the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine (rather than increasing their release like amphetamines do).

• Available as: Immediate-release tablets (Ritalin), extended-release tablets (Concerta, Ritalin LA), transdermal patch (Daytrana)
• Typical dose: 10-60 mg/day (varies by formulation)
• Pros: Different mechanism may work for some patients who don't respond well to amphetamines; multiple formulation options; generally better availability during the amphetamine shortage
• Cons: Some patients find amphetamines more effective; different side effect profile
• Availability note: Methylphenidate products have been less affected by the current shortage than amphetamine products.

4. Atomoxetine (Strattera)

Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant medication for ADHD. It's a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that works differently from stimulants and isn't a controlled substance.

• Available as: Capsules (10-100 mg)
• Typical dose: 40-100 mg/day for adults
• Pros: Not a controlled substance (no DEA quota issues); no abuse potential; available by mail order; good for patients with co-occurring anxiety or substance use history
• Cons: Takes 4-6 weeks to reach full effectiveness; generally considered less effective than stimulants for most ADHD patients; can cause nausea and fatigue initially
• Availability note: Generic Atomoxetine is widely available and not affected by the stimulant shortage.

How to Talk to Your Doctor About Switching

If you're considering an alternative, here are some things to bring up with your prescriber:

• How long you've been unable to fill Dextroamphetamine
• Whether you've tried any of these alternatives before
• Any side effects you've experienced with your current medication
• Whether you'd prefer to try a similar amphetamine (like Adderall or Vyvanse) or a different class (like Methylphenidate)
• Your insurance coverage — some alternatives may cost more or less

Your doctor can help you weigh the options and find something that keeps your symptoms managed while Dextroamphetamine is hard to find.

Final Thoughts

Not being able to fill your Dextroamphetamine prescription is stressful, but it doesn't mean you have to go without treatment. Alternatives like Adderall, Vyvanse, Methylphenidate, and Atomoxetine are all legitimate options that your doctor can help you explore.

Before switching, try using Medfinder to check if Dextroamphetamine is available at any pharmacy near you — you might find it closer than you think. And for a full breakdown of the current shortage, read our 2026 shortage update.