When Your Pharmacy Can't Fill Your Procentra Prescription

You've been told your child's Procentra isn't available. Maybe it's been weeks. Maybe you've called a dozen pharmacies. The amphetamine shortage that started in late 2022 is still affecting supply in 2026, and the oral solution form — which many young children depend on — has been one of the hardest products to find.

If you're stuck, it's worth knowing your options. This guide covers real, evidence-based alternatives to Procentra that your prescriber may consider. None of these should be switched to without a doctor's guidance — but understanding what's out there can help you have a more productive conversation at your next appointment.

What Is Procentra and How Does It Work?

Procentra is the brand name for Dextroamphetamine Sulfate oral solution, a liquid stimulant medication. It contains 5 mg of Dextroamphetamine per 5 mL (one teaspoon) and is FDA-approved for ADHD in children ages 3 to 16 and narcolepsy.

Dextroamphetamine works by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters play key roles in attention, focus, and impulse control. By boosting their availability, Procentra helps reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration.

The oral solution form is particularly important for young children (ages 3-5) and any patient who has difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules. For more details, see our full guide on how Procentra works.

Alternative 1: Zenzedi (Dextroamphetamine Sulfate Tablets)

Same active ingredient, different form.

Zenzedi contains the exact same active ingredient as Procentra — Dextroamphetamine Sulfate — but comes as a tablet instead of a liquid. It's available in a wide range of strengths: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg.

Pros:

• Identical active ingredient, so the therapeutic effect is the same
• Multiple strength options allow for precise dosing
• Generic Dextroamphetamine tablets are more widely available and less expensive (starting around $44 with a coupon)

Cons:

• Tablets — not ideal for young children who can't swallow pills
• Also subject to the amphetamine shortage, though tablets tend to be easier to find than the oral solution

Best for: Children old enough to swallow small tablets (typically age 6+) or patients who can crush tablets with their doctor's approval.

Alternative 2: Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate)

A prodrug of Dextroamphetamine with a longer duration.

Vyvanse is unique because it's a prodrug — meaning it's inactive until your body converts it into Dextroamphetamine after ingestion. This gives it a smoother onset and longer duration of action (up to 14 hours). It's FDA-approved for ADHD in patients ages 6 and older.

Pros:

• Converts to the same active compound (Dextroamphetamine) in the body
• Capsules can be opened and the contents dissolved in water — a potential option for children who can't swallow capsules
• Lower abuse potential due to the prodrug design
• Once-daily dosing (no need for doses at school)
• Generic Lisdexamfetamine is now available, making it more affordable

Cons:

• Not FDA-approved for children under 6 (Procentra is approved starting at age 3)
• Longer duration means side effects like insomnia may be harder to manage
• Not available as a ready-made liquid

Best for: Children ages 6+ who need all-day coverage and whose parents want to avoid midday dosing.

Alternative 3: Methylphenidate Oral Solution (Generic Ritalin Liquid)

A different stimulant class, also available in liquid form.

If you specifically need a liquid medication, methylphenidate oral solution is the most direct alternative. Methylphenidate works through a slightly different mechanism — it primarily blocks the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine rather than promoting their release — but the clinical effect on ADHD symptoms is similar.

Pros:

• Available as an oral solution — good for children who can't swallow pills
• Well-studied in children, with decades of safety data
• May be easier to find since it's not affected by the amphetamine-specific shortage quotas
• Multiple brands and generics available

Cons:

• Different drug class — response varies by patient (some do better on amphetamines, others on methylphenidate)
• Switching may require a new titration period to find the right dose
• Shorter duration of action (3-4 hours for IR), so multiple daily doses may be needed

Best for: Young children who need a liquid form and haven't responded to or can't access Dextroamphetamine.

Alternative 4: Adderall (Mixed Amphetamine Salts)

Contains Dextroamphetamine plus other amphetamine salts.

Adderall contains a combination of four amphetamine salts, including Dextroamphetamine. It's one of the most widely prescribed ADHD medications and is available in both immediate-release (IR) tablets and extended-release (XR) capsules.

Pros:

• Contains Dextroamphetamine as one of its active components
• Adderall XR capsules can be opened and sprinkled on applesauce for children who can't swallow
• Widely prescribed and well-studied
• Generic versions are available

Cons:

• Also affected by the amphetamine shortage
• Not available as a liquid
• Mixed salts formulation may produce a slightly different effect profile than pure Dextroamphetamine

Best for: Patients who benefit from a mixed amphetamine approach and can take capsules or sprinkled contents.

Important: Don't Switch on Your Own

All of these alternatives require a new prescription from your child's doctor. Because Procentra is a Schedule II controlled substance, there are strict rules about prescribing and dispensing. Your pharmacist cannot substitute one stimulant for another without a new prescription.

When talking to your prescriber, share:

• How long you've been unable to find Procentra
• Whether your child can swallow tablets or capsules
• Any past experience with other ADHD medications
• Your concerns about the switch (dosing, side effects, coverage)

For more information on Procentra's side effects and how they compare to alternatives, see our detailed guide.

Final Thoughts

Not being able to fill your child's prescription is scary and frustrating. But there are legitimate alternatives to Procentra that can provide effective ADHD treatment while the shortage persists. The key is working closely with your prescriber to find the right fit.

If you're still looking for Procentra, Medfinder can help you check pharmacy stock near you. And for tips on reducing costs when filling any of these medications, see our guide on saving money on Procentra and its alternatives.