Provider Briefing: The Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR Shortage in 2026

The ongoing shortage of Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR (generic Adderall XR) continues to present clinical and logistical challenges for prescribers across specialties. As of early 2026, the shortage — now in its fourth year — remains active, though supply conditions are gradually improving. This briefing provides an updated overview of the situation and practical guidance for managing affected patients.

Shortage Timeline

Understanding the trajectory of this shortage helps contextualize the current landscape:

• October 2022: Teva Pharmaceuticals, the largest generic manufacturer of mixed amphetamine salts XR, reports manufacturing delays. The FDA officially acknowledges the shortage.
• 2023: Shortage expands beyond Teva to affect multiple generic manufacturers. ASHP lists amphetamine mixed salts (both IR and XR) as in active shortage. Patient reports of pharmacy stock-outs become widespread.
• 2024: CDC issues a health advisory regarding potential disrupted access to care for patients on prescription stimulants. Multiple congressional hearings address the issue. DEA faces increasing pressure to raise production quotas.
• October 2025: DEA increases the aggregate production quota (APQ) for d-amphetamine from 21.2 million grams to 26.5 million grams — a 25% increase. This is the first meaningful quota adjustment aimed at the shortage.
• Early 2026: Supply is improving but not normalized. ASHP reports 15 mg, 25 mg, and 30 mg XR capsules remain on back order from several manufacturers, with estimated resupply dates in late February 2026.

Prescribing Implications

The shortage creates several practical challenges for prescribers:

Prescription Fulfillment Uncertainty

Patients may fill a prescription successfully one month and be unable to the next, even at the same pharmacy. This inconsistency complicates treatment planning and can lead to involuntary treatment interruptions.

Dose and Formulation Flexibility

Consider writing prescriptions with flexibility in mind when clinically appropriate:

• Alternative strengths: If a patient's usual 30 mg capsule is unavailable, two 15 mg capsules or a 20 mg + 10 mg combination may be feasible (if those strengths are in stock)
• Formulation switches: Some patients may benefit from switching to the immediate-release formulation (Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine IR), which has been somewhat less affected by the shortage in certain markets
• Therapeutic alternatives: Lisdexamfetamine (generic Vyvanse), Methylphenidate ER (generic Concerta), Dexedrine Spansules, and Mydayis are viable alternatives depending on patient history and response

Schedule II Regulatory Constraints

Remember that Schedule II prescriptions generally cannot be transferred between pharmacies in most states — a new prescription must be issued. Electronic prescribing of controlled substances (EPCS) facilitates this process. Consider sending prescriptions to the patient's preferred pharmacy and providing guidance on alternative pharmacies if the first is unable to fill.

Current Availability Picture

Based on ASHP data and manufacturer reports as of February 2026:

• 5 mg and 10 mg XR capsules: Generally available from multiple manufacturers
• 15 mg XR capsules: Limited availability; some manufacturers on back order
• 20 mg XR capsules: Moderate availability; intermittent shortages
• 25 mg and 30 mg XR capsules: Most constrained; multiple manufacturers reporting back orders with late February 2026 estimated resupply

Independent pharmacies and those using multiple wholesale distributors tend to have better stock than large chain pharmacies. Medfinder for Providers can help you and your patients identify pharmacies with current availability.

Cost and Access Considerations

The shortage has created cost variability that affects patient access:

• Generic cash price: $200-$350/month without discounts; $28-$80/month with discount cards (SingleCare, GoodRx)
• Brand Adderall XR: $250-$450/month cash price
• Insurance: Most commercial and Medicare plans cover generic amphetamine salt combo XR with typical copays of $10-$50. Brand may require prior authorization.
• Patient assistance: Teva Cares Foundation offers a PAP for eligible uninsured patients. NeedyMeds and RxAssist maintain directories of additional programs.

Patients paying cash should be directed to discount coupon programs, which can reduce costs by 70-90%. For comprehensive pricing information, see our provider guide to helping patients save money on Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR.

Tools and Resources for Your Practice

Medfinder for Providers

Medfinder is a pharmacy stock-checking tool that helps providers and patients identify local pharmacies with current availability of Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR. Consider integrating it into your workflow or recommending it to patients who report difficulty filling prescriptions.

ASHP Drug Shortage Database

The ASHP maintains up-to-date shortage information including affected manufacturers, estimated resupply dates, and clinical alternatives. Bookmark the amphetamine XR shortage page for ongoing monitoring.

FDA Drug Shortage Database

The FDA's shortage database provides regulatory context and information about agency actions to address supply disruptions.

State-Specific Resources

Some state pharmacy boards have issued guidance on Schedule II prescription transfers, early fills, and emergency dispensing during the shortage. Check your state board's website for specific provisions.

Looking Ahead

Several developments suggest the shortage will continue to ease throughout 2026:

• The DEA's 25% quota increase from October 2025 is being absorbed into the manufacturing pipeline
• Additional generic manufacturers have entered or expanded production
• Supply chain processes for raw amphetamine ingredients have stabilized

However, complete normalization may not occur until mid-to-late 2026, and certain strengths may remain intermittently difficult to find. Proactive communication with patients about availability, alternatives, and cost-saving options remains essential.

Final Thoughts

The Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR shortage has tested the patience and resourcefulness of prescribers and patients alike. While the supply trajectory is positive, providers should continue to build flexibility into their prescribing approach, maintain awareness of available alternatives, and leverage tools like Medfinder for Providers to help patients access their medications.

For additional clinical guidance, see our companion post: How to Help Your Patients Find Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR in Stock.