A clinical briefing on the Desoxyn shortage in 2026. Timeline, prescribing implications, availability data, alternatives, and provider tools.
If you prescribe Desoxyn (Methamphetamine Hydrochloride) — or have patients requesting it — you're likely aware that this medication has been exceptionally difficult to obtain for several years. This briefing provides an updated overview of the supply situation, its clinical implications, and practical resources to help your patients maintain treatment continuity.
Desoxyn occupies a unique niche in ADHD pharmacotherapy. As the only FDA-approved prescription Methamphetamine product, it serves a small but clinically important patient population — often those who have not responded adequately to first-line stimulants. The ongoing shortage demands that prescribers stay informed and proactive.
The current Desoxyn supply crisis didn't emerge overnight. Here's a brief history:
The shortage creates several clinical challenges for prescribers:
Patients stabilized on Desoxyn face the risk of involuntary treatment interruptions. Abrupt discontinuation of stimulant therapy can lead to symptom rebound, fatigue, mood disturbances, and functional impairment. Proactive planning — including identifying backup pharmacies and discussing contingency alternatives — is essential.
Even when Desoxyn is available, most insurance plans require prior authorization and step therapy documentation showing failure of first-line agents. This adds administrative burden and can delay treatment initiation. Be prepared to document clinical rationale thoroughly.
Some pharmacists may be unfamiliar with prescription Methamphetamine or reluctant to dispense it. Providing patients with a brief letter of medical necessity or calling the pharmacy directly can help facilitate dispensing. Remind pharmacy staff that Desoxyn is an FDA-approved, Schedule II medication with legitimate clinical indications.
While Desoxyn is FDA-approved only for ADHD (ages 6+) and short-term obesity management, some providers prescribe it off-label for treatment-resistant ADHD in adults. Document your clinical rationale carefully, particularly given the medication's controlled substance status and stigma.
As of early 2026, the Desoxyn supply landscape looks like this:
Cost remains a significant barrier for many patients:
For patients facing financial barriers, explore options through NeedyMeds, RxAssist, and the manufacturer program. See our provider guide to helping patients save on Desoxyn.
Several resources can help you and your patients navigate the shortage:
When Desoxyn is unavailable, consider these alternatives based on the patient's treatment history:
For a patient-facing overview, see our guide to Desoxyn alternatives.
The structural factors driving Desoxyn's scarcity — minimal manufacturer interest, small DEA quotas, and persistent stigma — are unlikely to resolve quickly. Providers should:
Desoxyn serves a clinically important role for a subset of ADHD patients, and the ongoing shortage puts these patients at risk. As prescribers, the most impactful things you can do are plan ahead, leverage available tools, and advocate for your patients when they encounter barriers to access.
For additional provider resources, visit Medfinder for Providers.
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