Finding Amphetamine in Stock Is Harder Than It Should Be

If you've been driving from pharmacy to pharmacy trying to fill your Amphetamine prescription, you already know how exhausting the search can be. The ongoing Amphetamine shortage has made it difficult for millions of patients to access their medication — whether they take generic Adderall, Adderall XR, or another formulation.

But there are smarter ways to search. In this guide, we'll share practical tools and strategies to help you find Amphetamine in stock near you without wasting hours on the phone.

Tip 1: Use Medfinder to Check Pharmacy Availability

The fastest way to find Amphetamine in stock is to use a pharmacy availability tool. Medfinder lets you search for pharmacies near your ZIP code that currently have Amphetamine products available.

Here's how it works:

1. Visit medfinder.com
2. Enter "Amphetamine" or your specific medication (like "Adderall XR 20mg")
3. Enter your ZIP code or city
4. Browse results to see which nearby pharmacies have it in stock

This saves you the hassle of calling 10+ pharmacies and hearing "sorry, we're out" over and over. Medfinder checks availability so you don't have to.

Tip 2: Try Independent and Specialty Pharmacies

When most people think of filling a prescription, they head straight to a large chain — CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, or Walmart. But during a shortage, these high-volume pharmacies are usually the first to run out.

Independent pharmacies can be a great alternative. Here's why:

• They often work with multiple distributors, giving them more sourcing options
• They serve smaller patient populations, so their stock may last longer
• Pharmacists at independent stores may have more flexibility to special-order medications
• Some independent pharmacies specialize in controlled substances and ADHD medications

To find independent pharmacies near you, try searching on Medfinder or simply search "independent pharmacy near me" on Google Maps.

Don't Forget Specialty Pharmacies

Some specialty pharmacies focus specifically on medications that are hard to find. While they may charge slightly more, they can be a lifesaver when you've exhausted other options.

Tip 3: Time Your Fill Strategically

Timing can make a big difference in whether your pharmacy has Amphetamine in stock. Here are some strategies:

Fill Early in the Month

Pharmacies typically receive their controlled substance shipments at the beginning of each month. If you can coordinate with your doctor to have your prescription ready on the 1st or 2nd of the month, you'll have a better chance of getting your medication before supplies run low.

Go Early in the Day

Pharmacies that do have Amphetamine in stock may sell through their supply quickly. Arriving early — ideally when the pharmacy opens — gives you the best shot at getting your fill before they run out for the day.

Ask About Delivery Days

Ask your pharmacist which days of the week they receive controlled substance shipments from their distributor. Then plan to fill your prescription on or right after those delivery days.

What If You Still Can't Find Amphetamine?

If you've tried the tips above and still can't locate Amphetamine, here are some additional options:

Ask Your Pharmacy to Place a Backorder

Your pharmacist can place a backorder with their distributor. While this doesn't guarantee a specific delivery date, it puts you in the queue to receive the medication when it becomes available.

Check Multiple Formulations

If your doctor prescribed Adderall XR 20mg and it's unavailable, ask whether a different strength or formulation might work. For example:

• Two 10mg XR capsules instead of one 20mg
• IR tablets instead of XR (taken twice daily)
• Dyanavel XR (liquid suspension) or Adzenys XR-ODT (orally disintegrating tablet)

Your doctor needs to approve any changes, but sometimes switching formulations opens up availability.

Talk to Your Doctor About Alternatives

If Amphetamine remains unavailable, your prescriber may recommend a different medication entirely. Common alternatives include Methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin), Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse), or non-stimulant options like Atomoxetine (Strattera). Read our full guide on Amphetamine alternatives for more details.

Consider Telehealth Prescribers

Some telehealth platforms specialize in ADHD treatment and may be able to help you navigate the shortage. They can send prescriptions to pharmacies that are more likely to have stock. Learn more about finding a doctor who can prescribe Amphetamine.

How to Save Money While Searching

The shortage has pushed some patients toward pharmacies that charge higher prices. Before you fill, compare prices using coupon tools like GoodRx, SingleCare, or RxSaver. Generic Amphetamine mixed salts can cost as little as $14-$60 for a 30-day supply with a coupon, compared to $200+ without one. Check out our guide on how to save money on Amphetamine.

Final Thoughts

Finding Amphetamine in stock during a shortage takes effort, but it's not impossible. By using tools like Medfinder, branching out to independent pharmacies, and timing your fills strategically, you can significantly improve your chances of getting your medication.

Stay informed about the shortage by reading our Amphetamine shortage update for 2026, and remember — persistence pays off. Your prescription is valid, and you deserve access to the medication you need.