If you think you have ADHD — or you already have a diagnosis but need a new prescriber — finding a doctor who can write a prescription for Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine (the generic form of Adderall) can feel surprisingly difficult. It's a Schedule II controlled substance, which means not every provider is willing or able to prescribe it. Add in an ongoing national shortage, and the process can feel overwhelming.

This guide walks you through exactly what type of doctor to look for, how to find one, and what to expect at your appointment — so you can get the care you need without wasting time.

What Type of Doctor Prescribes Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine?

Several types of medical providers can prescribe Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine. Here are the most common:

• Psychiatrists — These are the specialists most experienced with ADHD medications. They can diagnose ADHD and manage controlled substance prescriptions. If you're a new patient seeking an ADHD evaluation, a psychiatrist is often the best starting point.
• Primary care physicians (PCPs) — Many family medicine and internal medicine doctors prescribe stimulants for ADHD, especially for patients they already know. However, some PCPs prefer to refer patients to psychiatry for initial ADHD evaluation.
• Pediatricians — For children and adolescents, pediatricians commonly diagnose and treat ADHD with stimulant medications.
• Neurologists — Neurologists may prescribe Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine, particularly for narcolepsy, which is one of its FDA-approved uses.
• Nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) — In most states, NPs and PAs with prescriptive authority can prescribe Schedule II medications, including Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine. Many work in psychiatric or primary care practices.

Important: Not every doctor is comfortable prescribing stimulants. Some practices have policies against prescribing controlled substances to new patients, or they may require a formal ADHD evaluation first. It's always a good idea to ask about this when scheduling your appointment.

How to Find a Provider Who Prescribes Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine

Here are the most effective ways to find a prescriber near you:

1. Use Your Insurance Provider Directory

Start by logging into your insurance company's website and searching for in-network psychiatrists or primary care doctors in your area. Most directories allow you to filter by specialty. Call the office before booking and ask: "Do you evaluate and treat ADHD in adults/children?" and "Do you prescribe stimulant medications?"

2. Try Zocdoc or Similar Booking Platforms

Zocdoc lets you search for doctors by specialty, insurance, and location. You can often see same-week availability for psychiatrists and filter for ADHD-related visits. Other platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals also list provider specialties and patient reviews.

3. Ask Your Primary Care Doctor for a Referral

If you already have a PCP, ask for a referral to a psychiatrist who treats ADHD. Your doctor may know which specialists in your area are accepting new patients and prescribing stimulants. Some insurance plans require a referral from your PCP before you can see a specialist.

4. Consider Telehealth

Telehealth has become a popular option for ADHD care. Several online platforms specialize in ADHD evaluation and treatment, including stimulant prescriptions. Some well-known options include:

• Done — Online ADHD evaluations and medication management
• Cerebral — Telehealth psychiatry including ADHD
• Talkiatry — In-network telehealth psychiatry

A note on telehealth and controlled substances: As of 2025, the DEA finalized rules requiring an in-person evaluation before a telehealth provider can prescribe Schedule II stimulants to new patients. Some telehealth platforms have adapted by partnering with local clinics. Check with the specific service about their current requirements.

5. Contact Local Hospitals or Medical Schools

Teaching hospitals and university medical centers often have psychiatry departments that accept new patients. Wait times can be longer, but these clinics tend to accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicaid.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

If you're being evaluated for ADHD for the first time, here's what typically happens:

• Clinical interview — The doctor will ask about your symptoms, how long you've had them, and how they affect your daily life. ADHD must have been present since childhood (before age 12), even if it wasn't diagnosed.
• Screening questionnaires — You may be asked to fill out standardized forms like the ASRS (Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale) or Conners' rating scales.
• Medical history review — The doctor will review your overall health, including heart health, mental health history, and any history of substance use. This isn't a judgment call — it's a safety requirement for prescribing stimulants.
• Possible additional testing — Some providers use neuropsychological testing or computer-based attention tests, though these aren't always required.

If you already have an ADHD diagnosis, bring your records. This may include prior evaluations, a list of medications you've tried, and your current dose. Having documentation speeds up the process significantly.

After You Get Your Prescription

Once your doctor prescribes Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Finding a pharmacy with stock — Due to the ongoing shortage, not every pharmacy will have your medication available. Use Medfinder to check real-time availability at pharmacies near you.
• Prescription rules — Schedule II prescriptions cannot be called in by phone in most states. Your doctor will either send an electronic prescription (e-prescribe) or give you a written prescription. Most states now require e-prescribing for controlled substances.
• No automatic refills — You'll need a new prescription each month. Most doctors will schedule regular follow-up appointments (every 1-3 months) to continue your medication.
• Saving money — Generic Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine IR can cost as little as $15-$40 per month with coupons from GoodRx or SingleCare. Learn more in our savings guide.

Final Thoughts

Finding a doctor who can prescribe Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine takes some effort, but it's absolutely doable. Start with your insurance directory or a platform like Zocdoc, and don't hesitate to try telehealth if local options are limited. Once you have your prescription, Medfinder can help you find a pharmacy that has it in stock — so you can focus on feeling better, not chasing down your medication.