Finding Quillivant XR Shouldn't Be This Hard

If you've been searching for Quillivant XR and coming up empty, you already know how stressful it is. Your child needs their ADHD medication, the pharmacy says they're out, and you're left wondering where to turn next.

Quillivant XR — the only long-acting liquid methylphenidate for ADHD — has been in short supply since 2023. But being in short supply doesn't mean it's impossible to find. It just means you need the right tools and strategies.

In this guide, we'll share three proven tips for finding Quillivant XR in stock, plus what to do if you still can't locate it.

Tip 1: Use Medfinder to Check Real-Time Pharmacy Inventory

The fastest way to find Quillivant XR in stock is to use Medfinder. Instead of calling pharmacy after pharmacy, Medfinder shows you which pharmacies near you actually have Quillivant XR available — updated in real time.

Here's how it works:

1. Go to medfinder.com
2. Search for "Quillivant XR"
3. Enter your zip code
4. See a list of pharmacies with current stock

This saves you hours of phone calls and wasted trips. It's especially useful for medications like Quillivant XR that are only made by one manufacturer and can vary widely in availability from pharmacy to pharmacy.

Tip 2: Check Independent and Specialty Pharmacies

When most people think "pharmacy," they think CVS, Walgreens, or Walmart. But during a shortage, these high-volume chains are often the first to run out.

Independent pharmacies — locally owned pharmacies in your community — often have different supply chains and wholesaler relationships. They may be able to source Quillivant XR when the big chains can't.

Specialty pharmacies that focus on pediatric medications or controlled substances can also be a good bet. Some compounding pharmacies may have relationships with Tris Pharma's distribution network that chain pharmacies don't.

Tips for calling pharmacies:

• Call early in the morning (before they get busy)
• Ask specifically for "Quillivant XR extended-release oral suspension"
• Ask if they can order it from their wholesaler and how long it would take
• Ask if they can put you on a waiting list or notify you when it arrives

Tip 3: Time Your Refills Strategically

Pharmacy restocking patterns matter. Most pharmacies receive deliveries from their wholesalers on specific days of the week. Here are some timing strategies:

• Refill early in the month. Many patients fill controlled substance prescriptions at the beginning of the month, so pharmacies may restock accordingly.
• Call on delivery days. Ask your pharmacist what days they receive shipments and call to check stock on those days.
• Don't wait until you're out. Because Quillivant XR is a controlled substance, you can typically fill it a few days early. Start looking for your refill before your current bottle runs out.
• Morning is better. Call or visit pharmacies first thing in the morning, before the day's prescriptions are filled and stock is depleted.

What If You Still Can't Find Quillivant XR?

If you've tried these tips and still can't locate Quillivant XR, you have a few more options:

Talk to Your Prescriber About Alternatives

Your doctor may be able to prescribe a temporary alternative while Quillivant XR supply recovers. Options in the same drug class include:

• Concerta (methylphenidate ER tablets) — a long-acting tablet form
• Ritalin LA (methylphenidate ER capsules) — capsules that can be opened and sprinkled on food
• Dyanavel XR (amphetamine oral suspension) — another liquid stimulant, though amphetamine-based
• QuilliChew ER (methylphenidate chewable tablets) — also made by Tris Pharma, a chewable alternative

Your prescriber can help determine the best fit based on your or your child's needs.

Contact Tris Pharma Directly

Tris Pharma, the manufacturer of Quillivant XR, may have information about supply timelines and availability in your area. You can reach them through their website at trispharma.com.

Use the Tris Savings Card

If cost is part of the barrier, the Tris Pharma Savings Card can reduce your out-of-pocket cost to as little as $20 per prescription for eligible patients. Activate it at trissavingscard.com.

Final Thoughts

Finding Quillivant XR in 2026 takes more effort than it should. But with the right tools — especially Medfinder's real-time pharmacy search — and a few smart strategies, you can improve your chances significantly.

Start by checking availability on Medfinder, expand your search to independent pharmacies, and time your refills wisely. And if Quillivant XR remains out of reach, know that your prescriber can help you find a suitable alternative until supply stabilizes.

For more background on the shortage, read our post on why Quillivant XR is so hard to find.