Wondering why Amphetamine XR is so hard to find in 2026? Learn about the shortage, supply chain issues, DEA quotas, and what you can do to fill your prescription.
You've been to three pharmacies. You've called ahead. You've waited on hold. And still — no one has your Amphetamine XR in stock. If this sounds familiar, you're far from the only one dealing with it.
Since late 2022, patients across the United States have been struggling to fill prescriptions for amphetamine-based ADHD medications. Extended-release formulations like Dyanavel XR, Adzenys XR-ODT, and Adzenys ER have been especially difficult to find.
In this article, we'll explain exactly why Amphetamine XR is so hard to find, what's driving the shortage, and — most importantly — what you can do about it right now.
Amphetamine XR refers to extended-release formulations of amphetamine, a Schedule II CNS stimulant prescribed primarily for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in patients aged 6 and older.
Unlike immediate-release amphetamine tablets (such as Evekeo), extended-release versions are designed to last throughout the day with a single morning dose. Brand-name options include:
These formulations are particularly popular for children and patients who have difficulty swallowing capsules. To learn more about how the drug works, see our guide on how Amphetamine XR works.
There's no single reason for the shortage. It's a combination of factors that have created a perfect storm of supply and demand imbalance.
Because amphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) sets annual limits — called aggregate production quotas (APQs) — on how much can be manufactured in the United States each year.
These quotas are meant to prevent diversion and abuse, but they also cap the total supply. Even when demand surges, manufacturers can't simply make more without DEA approval. While the DEA raised amphetamine production quotas by up to 25% in October 2025 and established new 2026 quotas in January 2026, the increases have not yet fully closed the gap between supply and demand.
ADHD diagnoses have climbed significantly in recent years — especially among adults. The FDA estimated that demand for amphetamine-based medications grew approximately 6% from 2023 to 2024 alone. Telehealth platforms have made it easier to get diagnosed and prescribed, further driving demand.
More prescriptions mean more patients competing for a limited supply, and extended-release formulations like Amphetamine XR are particularly in demand because of their once-daily convenience.
Even with higher DEA quotas, pharmaceutical manufacturers need time to scale up production. Raw material sourcing, manufacturing capacity, and quality control processes all create bottlenecks. Specialty formulations like Dyanavel XR (a liquid suspension) and Adzenys XR-ODT (an orally disintegrating tablet) are more complex to produce than standard tablets or capsules.
Unlike generic Adderall XR (mixed amphetamine salts), which is widely manufactured, Dyanavel XR and Adzenys XR-ODT are brand-name-only medications without generic equivalents. This means supply comes from a single manufacturer — Tris Pharma — and any production disruption has an outsized impact on availability.
The shortage is frustrating, but there are practical steps you can take right now:
Medfinder lets you search for Amphetamine XR availability at pharmacies near you in real time. Instead of calling pharmacy after pharmacy, you can check stock from your phone or computer.
Large chain pharmacies often run out of controlled substances first due to high patient volume. Independent pharmacies and compounding pharmacies sometimes have better availability. They may also be more willing to help you locate the medication. For more tips, read our guide on how to find Amphetamine XR in stock near you.
If Amphetamine XR remains unavailable, your prescriber may be able to switch you to a comparable medication. Options include Adderall XR (generic mixed amphetamine salts), Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine), or Concerta (Methylphenidate ER). Each works differently, so it's important to discuss what's right for you. Check out our full breakdown of alternatives to Amphetamine XR.
If cost is a barrier on top of availability, the Tris Pharma Savings Card can lower your out-of-pocket expense. Eligible commercially insured patients may pay as little as $20 per prescription. Learn more in our guide to saving money on Amphetamine XR.
The Amphetamine XR shortage is a real and ongoing challenge in 2026. It's caused by a combination of DEA production limits, rising demand for ADHD medications, manufacturing constraints, and the brand-only status of key formulations.
While there's no quick fix for the supply chain, you can improve your chances by using tools like Medfinder, exploring independent pharmacies, and working closely with your prescriber on backup options.
Stay informed. Check our Amphetamine XR shortage update for the latest news.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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