Finding a Provider Who Can Prescribe Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine IR

If you think you might benefit from amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR (the generic form of Adderall), the first step is finding a doctor who can evaluate you and write a prescription. Because this medication is a Schedule II controlled substance, not every provider is willing or able to prescribe it — and the process can feel confusing if you're starting from scratch.

This guide walks you through who can prescribe amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR, how to find a provider near you, and what to expect at your first appointment.

What Type of Doctor Prescribes Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine IR?

Several types of licensed medical providers can prescribe this medication:

• Psychiatrists — Mental health specialists who are often the most experienced with ADHD medications. They can diagnose ADHD and manage stimulant prescriptions long-term.
• Primary care physicians (PCPs) and family medicine doctors — Many PCPs prescribe stimulants for ADHD, especially for straightforward cases in adults. Some are comfortable managing these medications; others prefer to refer out.
• Pediatricians — For children and adolescents with ADHD, pediatricians are often the first prescribers.
• Neurologists — Less common, but neurologists may prescribe stimulants for ADHD or narcolepsy.
• Nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) — In most states, NPs and PAs with prescriptive authority can prescribe Schedule II medications, though some practices have policies limiting this.

Keep in mind that because amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR is a controlled substance, some providers have personal or practice-level policies against prescribing stimulants. This doesn't mean anything is wrong with you — it just means you may need to find a different provider.

How to Find a Provider Near You

Here are several practical ways to find a doctor who can prescribe amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR:

1. Use Your Insurance Provider Directory

If you have health insurance, start with your plan's online provider directory. Search for psychiatrists or primary care doctors in your network. Many directories let you filter by specialty, location, and whether a provider is accepting new patients. This is the most cost-effective route because you'll be seeing an in-network provider.

2. Search on Zocdoc or Healthgrades

Platforms like Zocdoc, Healthgrades, and Psychology Today let you search for providers by specialty, insurance accepted, and availability. On Zocdoc, you can book appointments directly and filter for psychiatrists or primary care doctors who treat ADHD.

3. Ask for a Referral

Your current primary care doctor can refer you to a psychiatrist or specialist. If your PCP isn't comfortable prescribing stimulants, they can usually point you toward someone who is. A referral may also be required by your insurance plan.

4. Consider Telehealth

Telehealth has become a popular option for ADHD evaluations and stimulant prescriptions. Several platforms now offer virtual ADHD assessments and can prescribe amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR if appropriate. Note that DEA regulations require an in-person evaluation or a video visit (audio-only phone calls don't qualify) for initial Schedule II prescriptions as of 2025. Telehealth platforms that specialize in ADHD include Done, Cerebral, and others — though policies and availability vary by state.

5. Community Health Centers

If you're uninsured or underinsured, federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) offer sliding-scale fees. Many have behavioral health providers on staff who can evaluate and treat ADHD. Find one at findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

If you're being evaluated for ADHD for the first time, here's what a typical appointment looks like:

• Medical history review — Your provider will ask about your symptoms, when they started, and how they affect your daily life.
• Screening questionnaires — You may fill out standardized forms like the ASRS (Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale) or Vanderbilt Assessment (for children).
• Discussion of other conditions — Your doctor will want to rule out anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, or other conditions that can mimic ADHD symptoms.
• Physical exam and vitals — Because stimulants can raise blood pressure and heart rate, your provider will likely check these before prescribing.
• Treatment discussion — If ADHD is confirmed, your doctor will discuss medication options. Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR is one of several options, and your provider will help determine if it's the right fit.

Be honest about your symptoms and medical history. Providers are looking for a clear clinical picture — not perfection.

After You Get Your Prescription

Once your doctor writes a prescription for amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Schedule II rules apply. Your prescription cannot be called in to the pharmacy — it must be sent electronically (e-prescribed) or given as a written paper prescription in most states. Refills are not allowed; you'll need a new prescription each month.
• Finding it in stock may take effort. Due to the ongoing shortage of amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR, not every pharmacy will have it available. Use Medfinder to check pharmacy availability before making the trip.
• Follow-up appointments are required. Your doctor will likely want to see you within 2-4 weeks of starting the medication, then every 1-3 months thereafter. These visits are needed to monitor effectiveness, side effects, and to write new prescriptions.

If cost is a concern, generic amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR is available for as little as $14 to $50 for a 30-day supply with a discount coupon. Check out our guide on how to save money on amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR for more options.

Final Thoughts

Finding a doctor who can prescribe amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR doesn't have to be overwhelming. Start with your insurance directory or a platform like Zocdoc, and don't hesitate to try telehealth if in-person options are limited in your area. The most important thing is finding a provider who takes the time to properly evaluate you and work with you on a treatment plan.

Once you have your prescription, Medfinder can help you find a pharmacy that has it in stock — so you can focus on your health, not the search.