Finding a Doctor Who Can Prescribe Lisdexamfetamine

If you think you might benefit from Lisdexamfetamine — sold under the brand name Vyvanse — the first step is finding a qualified provider who can evaluate you and write a prescription. Because Lisdexamfetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance, not every doctor is comfortable prescribing it, and there are extra rules around how it can be prescribed and refilled.

This guide walks you through the types of doctors who prescribe Lisdexamfetamine, how to find one near you, and what to expect at your first appointment.

What Type of Doctor Prescribes Lisdexamfetamine?

Several types of medical professionals can prescribe Lisdexamfetamine for ADHD or Binge Eating Disorder (BED):

• Psychiatrists — Mental health specialists who are often the most experienced with ADHD medications. They can diagnose ADHD, prescribe stimulants, and manage your treatment long-term.
• Primary care doctors (family medicine or internal medicine) — Many PCPs prescribe Lisdexamfetamine, especially for straightforward ADHD cases. Some may refer complex cases to a psychiatrist.
• Pediatricians — For children aged 6 and older with ADHD, pediatricians are often the first prescribers.
• Neurologists — Some neurologists treat ADHD, particularly when other neurological conditions are involved.
• Nurse practitioners and physician assistants — In most states, NPs and PAs with appropriate training can prescribe Schedule II stimulants, though some states require a collaborative agreement with a physician.

The key is finding a provider who has experience with ADHD or BED and is willing to prescribe controlled substances. Some doctors have policies against prescribing stimulants, so it helps to confirm before booking.

How to Find a Provider Near You

Here are the most effective ways to find a Lisdexamfetamine prescriber in your area:

1. Use Your Insurance Provider Directory

Start with your insurance company's online provider directory. Search for psychiatrists or primary care doctors who are in-network. This ensures lower out-of-pocket costs. Call the office before your visit and ask if the provider prescribes stimulant medications for ADHD.

2. Search on Zocdoc or Similar Platforms

Platforms like Zocdoc, Healthgrades, and Psychology Today let you filter by specialty, insurance accepted, and location. You can often see patient reviews and book appointments online. Search for "ADHD" or "psychiatrist" to find relevant results.

3. Ask Your Primary Care Doctor for a Referral

If your PCP doesn't prescribe stimulants, ask for a referral to a psychiatrist who does. Referrals can also help you get seen faster, especially at practices with long wait times.

4. Consider Telehealth

Telehealth has become a popular option for ADHD treatment. Several platforms now offer virtual ADHD evaluations and can prescribe Lisdexamfetamine in most states. This can be especially helpful if:

• There are few ADHD specialists in your area
• Wait times for local psychiatrists are months long
• You have a busy schedule and need flexible appointment times

Important note: DEA rules around telehealth prescribing of Schedule II substances have been evolving. As of 2026, many states allow an initial telehealth visit for ADHD medication, but some require an in-person visit at some point. Check your state's current rules or ask the telehealth provider directly.

5. Check With Local ADHD Support Groups

Organizations like CHADD (Children and Adults with ADHD) maintain provider directories and support groups that can point you toward experienced prescribers in your community.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Whether you see a psychiatrist, PCP, or telehealth provider, here's what a typical first visit looks like:

• Medical history review — Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, how long you've had them, and how they affect your daily life.
• ADHD screening — Expect questionnaires or rating scales like the ASRS (Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale) or Vanderbilt Assessment for children.
• Physical exam — Your provider will check your blood pressure, heart rate, and overall health. Lisdexamfetamine can raise blood pressure and heart rate, so a cardiovascular baseline is important.
• Discussion of treatment options — Your doctor may discuss both stimulant and non-stimulant alternatives before recommending Lisdexamfetamine specifically.
• Prescription — If your doctor determines Lisdexamfetamine is appropriate, they'll typically start you at 30 mg once daily and adjust from there. The maximum dose is 70 mg/day.

Bring any previous medical records, prior ADHD evaluations, school or work performance notes, or a list of medications you've tried. The more information you provide, the smoother the process.

After You Get Your Prescription

Once you have a Lisdexamfetamine prescription, you'll need to find a pharmacy that has it in stock. Due to the ongoing stimulant shortage, this isn't always easy. A few tips:

• Use Medfinder to check real-time stock at pharmacies near you.
• Ask your doctor's office if they know which local pharmacies currently have supply.
• Consider both brand Vyvanse and generic Lisdexamfetamine — generic may be easier to find and costs significantly less.

Remember that Schedule II prescriptions cannot be called in to pharmacies in most states. Your doctor will send an electronic prescription (e-prescribe) directly. Refills are not allowed — you'll need a new prescription each month.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right doctor is the first step toward getting treated. Whether you go through your insurance directory, use Zocdoc, or try telehealth, the most important thing is finding a provider who listens to your concerns and has experience managing ADHD medications like Lisdexamfetamine.

If you already have a prescription but can't find the medication in stock, check out our guide to finding Lisdexamfetamine near you. And if cost is a barrier, we have a full breakdown of coupons, discounts, and patient assistance programs that can help.