Finding a Prescriber for Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR Can Feel Overwhelming

If you've been diagnosed with ADHD — or think you might have it — one of the first hurdles is finding a doctor who can actually prescribe Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR (the generic form of Adderall XR). Because it's a Schedule II controlled substance, not every provider is comfortable prescribing it, and the rules around who can write the prescription vary by state.

This guide walks you through who prescribes Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR, how to find a provider near you, 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 XR?

Several types of medical providers are licensed to prescribe Schedule II stimulants like Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR:

• Psychiatrists — Mental health specialists with the most experience prescribing ADHD medications. They're often the first choice if you want a provider who focuses on this area.
• Primary care physicians (PCPs) — Family medicine and internal medicine doctors can prescribe stimulants, though some prefer to refer complex cases to psychiatrists.
• Pediatricians — For children and adolescents aged 6 and older, pediatricians commonly manage ADHD treatment including stimulant medications.
• Neurologists — Sometimes involved in ADHD management, especially when there are overlapping neurological concerns.
• Nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) — In most states, NPs and PAs with prescriptive authority can prescribe Schedule II medications, often under a collaborative agreement with a physician.

Keep in mind that some providers have personal policies against prescribing stimulants, even if they're legally allowed to. It's worth asking up front.

How to Find a Provider Near You

Here are the most effective ways to find a prescriber for Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR in 2026:

1. Start with Your Insurance Directory

If you have health insurance, check your plan's provider directory online. Filter by psychiatry or behavioral health to find in-network providers who are more likely to prescribe ADHD medications.

2. Ask Your Primary Care Doctor for a Referral

Your PCP may be willing to prescribe Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR directly. If not, they can refer you to a psychiatrist or specialist who will. A referral from your PCP can also speed up the scheduling process.

3. Try Telehealth Platforms

Telehealth has made ADHD care much more accessible. Several platforms now connect patients with providers who specialize in ADHD and can prescribe stimulants remotely. In many states, telehealth providers can prescribe Schedule II substances after a video evaluation. Popular options include:

• Done
• Cerebral
• Talkiatry
• Your insurance plan's telehealth service

Be aware that telehealth prescribing rules for controlled substances vary by state. The DEA's updated telehealth regulations (effective 2025) require an initial video visit for new Schedule II prescriptions in most cases.

4. Use Online Directories

Websites like Psychology Today, Zocdoc, and Healthgrades let you search for psychiatrists and prescribers by location, insurance, and specialty. Filter for providers who list ADHD as a treatment focus.

5. Contact Local Psychiatric Clinics

University-affiliated psychiatric clinics and community mental health centers often have shorter wait times than private practices and accept a wider range of insurance plans.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Once you've found a provider, here's what a typical first visit looks like:

Before the Appointment

• Gather any previous medical records, especially past ADHD evaluations or treatment history
• Make a list of your current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
• Write down your symptoms and how they affect your daily life — work, relationships, school
• Bring your insurance card and photo ID

During the Visit

Your provider will likely:

1. Review your medical history — including cardiac health, blood pressure, and any history of substance use
2. Conduct an ADHD evaluation — this may include standardized screening tools, interviews, and possibly rating scales filled out by family members or partners
3. Discuss treatment options — stimulant medications like Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR are first-line treatment for ADHD, but your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks based on your specific situation
4. Order baseline labs or an EKG — some providers check heart health before starting stimulants, especially if you have risk factors

If your provider determines that Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR is appropriate, they'll typically start you at a low dose (often 20 mg once daily for adults or 10 mg for children) and adjust over time.

After You Get Your Prescription

Getting the prescription is just the first step. With the ongoing shortage of Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR, filling it can be its own challenge.

Here's what to know:

• Prescriptions cannot be called in. Schedule II medications require a written or electronic prescription sent directly to the pharmacy.
• No automatic refills. You'll need a new prescription each month (though many states now allow up to 90-day supplies with multiple post-dated prescriptions).
• Check stock before going to the pharmacy. Use Medfinder to check which pharmacies near you have it in stock — this can save you a lot of frustration.
• Ask about cost savings. Generic Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR can cost as little as $28 to $80 per month with discount coupons. Check out our guide to saving money on Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR.

Your provider will also schedule follow-up visits — typically every 1 to 3 months — to monitor how you're responding to the medication and make dose adjustments as needed.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right doctor to prescribe Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR doesn't have to be a long, frustrating process. Whether you go through your PCP, a psychiatrist, or a telehealth platform, the most important thing is to find a provider who listens, evaluates you properly, and helps you build a treatment plan that works.

If you already have a prescription and need help finding a pharmacy with stock, Medfinder can help you locate Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine XR near you in real time.