The Dexedrine Shortage in 2026: Where Things Stand

If you're wondering whether the Dexedrine shortage is over — the short answer is no, not entirely. While supply has improved for some formulations compared to the worst months of 2023 and 2024, Dexedrine (Dextroamphetamine) remains inconsistently available across the country in early 2026.

Here's what's happening, what it costs, and what you can do about it.

Is Dexedrine Still in Shortage?

Yes. The FDA and ASHP (American Society of Health-System Pharmacists) continue to list amphetamine products — including Dextroamphetamine — as in shortage. The situation varies by region and formulation:

• Generic Dextroamphetamine IR tablets are somewhat easier to find than they were in 2023–2024, but stock remains spotty
• Dexedrine Spansule (ER capsules) continues to be one of the harder formulations to locate
• Zenzedi (brand IR tablets) is available but can be expensive
• Xelstrym (transdermal patch) is a newer option that may be available where other formulations are not

The shortage is not unique to Dexedrine — it affects the entire amphetamine class, including Adderall, Mydayis, and generic mixed amphetamine salts.

Why Is Dexedrine Still Hard to Find?

The causes haven't changed much since the shortage began in October 2022:

• DEA production quotas cap how much Dextroamphetamine can be manufactured each year. The transition to a semi-annual quota system in 2024 caused additional disruption.
• Rising demand for ADHD medications — driven by increased diagnoses and broader telehealth access — continues to outpace supply.
• Limited manufacturers. Only a few companies (Teva, Mallinckrodt/SpecGx, Aurobindo, Amneal) produce generic Dextroamphetamine. Production issues at any one of them have an outsized impact.
• Pharmacy ordering constraints for Schedule II drugs mean that even available supply doesn't always make it to your local pharmacy shelf.

For a deeper explanation, see: Why is Dexedrine so hard to find?

How Much Does Dexedrine Cost in 2026?

Cost varies widely depending on the formulation and whether you have insurance:

• Generic Dextroamphetamine IR tablets (30 tablets): $20–$60 with a discount card (GoodRx, SingleCare, RxSaver)
• Generic Dextroamphetamine ER capsules (30 capsules): $38–$120 with a coupon
• Brand Dexedrine Spansule: Can exceed $300–$685 without insurance
• Zenzedi (brand IR): $200–$500+ depending on strength and pharmacy
• Xelstrym patch: Premium pricing; check with your insurer

If cost is a concern, read our full savings guide: How to save money on Dexedrine in 2026.

Are There New Options for Patients?

A few developments may help in 2026:

• Xelstrym transdermal patch: FDA-approved for ADHD in adults and children 6+, this Dextroamphetamine patch delivers medication through the skin over 9 hours. It's a completely different delivery method that avoids some supply chain issues affecting oral formulations.
• Generic Vyvanse: Generic Lisdexamfetamine (the active ingredient converts to Dextroamphetamine) has been available since mid-2023. It may be easier to find and more affordable than Dexedrine itself.
• DEA quota adjustments: The DEA has faced congressional pressure to increase production quotas for stimulant medications. Any increases would take time to translate into pharmacy shelves, but the trend is positive.

How to Find Dexedrine in Stock

Your best strategies:

1. Use Medfinder to search for Dexedrine and Dextroamphetamine availability by zip code
2. Call independent pharmacies — they often have more ordering flexibility than chains
3. Ask about all formulations — if ER is out, IR may be available (and vice versa)
4. Time your refills — fill early in the month and check on pharmacy restock days
5. Talk to your doctor about alternatives if you've been unable to fill for 2+ weeks

For detailed tips, see: How to find Dexedrine in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

The Dexedrine shortage has been one of the longest-running drug shortages in recent memory, and while things are slowly improving, patients are still feeling the impact in 2026. Stay proactive: use tools like Medfinder, keep communication open with your prescriber, and explore all available formulations and alternatives.

If you're a provider looking for clinical guidance, see our provider-focused update: Dexedrine shortage: What providers need to know in 2026.