A clinical briefing on the Evekeo shortage in 2026 for prescribers: supply timeline, prescribing implications, alternatives, and patient access tools.
The amphetamine shortage that began in late 2022 continues to affect patients and prescribers across the United States. While supply has improved for some formulations, Evekeo (amphetamine sulfate) — a racemic amphetamine used for ADHD, narcolepsy, and short-term obesity management — remains one of the more challenging stimulants to source in 2026.
This briefing covers the current state of Evekeo availability, prescribing considerations, cost barriers, and clinical tools to help your patients maintain continuity of care.
Understanding the trajectory of the Evekeo shortage helps contextualize the current landscape:
The ongoing shortage creates several challenges for prescribers managing patients on Evekeo:
Evekeo's 1:1 ratio of d-amphetamine to l-amphetamine distinguishes it from Adderall's 3:1 ratio. When considering a switch:
Many insurance plans classify Evekeo as non-preferred and require prior authorization. Common step therapy requirements include documented trials of:
Documenting clinical rationale for Evekeo specifically (e.g., better tolerability profile, prior treatment failures with other formulations) strengthens authorization appeals.
As of 2026, telehealth prescribing of Schedule II controlled substances continues under evolving DEA regulations. Prescribers should stay current on federal and state-specific rules regarding initial assessments, follow-up requirements, and e-prescribing mandates for controlled substances.
Evekeo availability varies significantly by region and pharmacy type:
For real-time stock checking, clinicians can direct patients to Medfinder for Providers or have staff use the tool to locate stock before sending prescriptions.
Cost is a significant barrier for many Evekeo patients:
Compared to alternative stimulants:
For patients facing cost barriers, the following resources may help:
For a comprehensive patient-facing resource, refer patients to our guide on saving money on Evekeo.
Several tools can help streamline the process of getting patients their medications:
Medfinder's provider platform allows clinical staff to check Evekeo availability at local pharmacies before sending prescriptions. This prevents the frustrating cycle of patients going to a pharmacy only to find the medication is out of stock.
When e-prescribing Evekeo, consider asking patients to confirm pharmacy stock before sending. Alternatively, keep a short list of pharmacies in your area that have historically been able to source Evekeo.
Share these resources with patients who are struggling to find Evekeo:
The stimulant shortage is on a gradual improvement trajectory, but several factors suggest Evekeo may remain difficult to source for the foreseeable future:
Prescribers should develop contingency plans for patients on Evekeo, including identified alternatives and agreed-upon protocols if supply interruptions occur.
The Evekeo shortage demands a proactive approach from prescribers. By understanding the supply landscape, having conversion protocols ready, leveraging tools like Medfinder for Providers, and maintaining open communication with patients, clinicians can minimize treatment disruptions.
For additional provider resources, see our guide on how to help your patients find Evekeo in stock and our provider's guide to helping patients save money on Evekeo.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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