Finding the Right Doctor for Dextroamphetamine XR

Dextroamphetamine XR (extended-release) is a Schedule II controlled substance used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. Because of its controlled status, not every doctor can — or will — prescribe it. If you need this medication, finding the right provider is your first step.

Whether you're getting diagnosed for the first time or switching from another medication, this guide will walk you through how to find a prescriber near you in 2026.

What Type of Doctor Prescribes Dextroamphetamine XR?

Several types of doctors can prescribe dextroamphetamine XR, including:

• Psychiatrists — Mental health specialists who are the most experienced with ADHD medications. They handle complex cases, dose adjustments, and medication switches.
• Primary care physicians (family medicine or internal medicine) — Many PCPs are comfortable prescribing stimulants for straightforward ADHD cases, especially if you already have a diagnosis.
• Pediatricians — For patients aged 6 and older, pediatricians frequently prescribe dextroamphetamine XR for ADHD.
• Neurologists — Often involved when narcolepsy is the reason for the prescription.
• Sleep medicine specialists — May prescribe it for narcolepsy or excessive daytime sleepiness.

Nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) can also prescribe Schedule II stimulants in most states, though rules vary. In some states, they may need a collaborating physician.

How to Find a Provider Near You

Here are the best ways to find a doctor who prescribes dextroamphetamine XR in your area.

1. Use Your Insurance Provider Directory

Start with your health insurance company's online directory. Search for psychiatrists or primary care doctors in your network. This ensures your visit will be covered and helps avoid surprise bills. Most directories let you filter by specialty, location, and whether the provider is accepting new patients.

2. Try Zocdoc or Healthgrades

Platforms like Zocdoc let you search by condition (ADHD) and insurance plan. You can read reviews, see availability, and book appointments online. Healthgrades and Vitals are also good options for finding rated providers near you.

3. Ask for a Referral

If your current doctor doesn't prescribe stimulants, ask them for a referral to a psychiatrist or specialist who does. Referrals from trusted providers are often the fastest path to an appointment.

4. Consider Telehealth

Telehealth has made it much easier to see a prescriber without leaving home. Several platforms now offer ADHD evaluation and medication management online. While prescribing rules for Schedule II drugs via telehealth vary by state, many providers can prescribe dextroamphetamine XR through a video visit.

Popular telehealth options for ADHD include Done, Cerebral, and Ahead. Check that the platform prescribes in your state and accepts your insurance.

5. Contact Your Pharmacy

Pharmacists often know which local doctors prescribe stimulants regularly. If you're having trouble finding a prescriber, your pharmacist may be able to point you in the right direction.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

If you're being evaluated for ADHD for the first time, your appointment will likely include:

• A review of your symptoms and medical history — The doctor will ask about attention, focus, impulsivity, and how symptoms affect daily life.
• Screening questionnaires — Tools like the ASRS (Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale) or Conners' rating scales are commonly used.
• Discussion of treatment options — Stimulants like dextroamphetamine XR are a first-line treatment for ADHD, but the doctor will review your full medical history before prescribing.
• Vital signs check — Because stimulants can raise blood pressure and heart rate, your doctor will check these before starting treatment.

If you already have an ADHD diagnosis and are switching medications, bring documentation of your previous treatment. This speeds up the process significantly.

Be honest about your symptoms and any history of substance use. Doctors are required to screen for abuse risk before prescribing Schedule II medications, and being upfront helps build trust.

After You Get Your Prescription

Once you have a prescription for dextroamphetamine XR, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Schedule II prescriptions cannot be called in — Your doctor must send the prescription electronically (e-prescribing) or give you a written script in most states.
• Refills require a new prescription each time — You'll need to see your doctor (or have a telehealth visit) regularly to get refills. Most states allow up to a 90-day supply.
• Finding it in stock can be challenging — Due to the ongoing shortage of dextroamphetamine XR, you may need to check multiple pharmacies. Use Medfinder to see which pharmacies near you have it available.

To learn more about finding your medication once you have a prescription, read our guide on how to find dextroamphetamine XR in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

Finding a doctor who prescribes dextroamphetamine XR is easier than many people expect. Psychiatrists, primary care doctors, and even telehealth platforms can help. Start with your insurance directory or a referral from your current provider. Once you have your prescription, Medfinder can help you locate a pharmacy that has it in stock.

If you want to learn more about this medication before your appointment, check out our article on what dextroamphetamine XR is, its uses, and dosage information.