Find out why Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine (Adderall) is so hard to find in 2026, what's causing the shortage, and what you can do to get your prescription filled.
You've called five pharmacies. You've driven across town. You've been told "we don't have it" so many times you've lost count. If you're struggling to find Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine — commonly known by the brand name Adderall — you're far from alone. Since late 2022, patients across the United States have faced an ongoing shortage of this critical ADHD medication, and as of early 2026, many people are still having trouble getting their prescriptions filled.
In this article, we'll explain what Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine is, why it's been so hard to find, and what steps you can take right now to locate it near you.
Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance and central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. It's FDA-approved to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children and adults, as well as narcolepsy.
The medication works by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control. It's available in two main forms:
Brand names include Adderall, Adderall XR, and Mydayis. Generic versions are manufactured by companies like Teva, Sandoz, Mallinckrodt, Lannett, and others.
For a complete overview of the medication, see our guide: What Is Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know.
The shortage of Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine has been one of the longest-running medication shortages in recent history. Here are the key reasons it's still difficult to find in 2026:
Because Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine 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 each year. For years, these quotas didn't keep pace with growing demand.
In October 2025, the DEA finally increased the quota for d-amphetamine from 21.2 million grams to 26.5 million grams — a roughly 25% increase. While this was a welcome step, it takes time for manufacturers to ramp up production and for the extra supply to reach pharmacy shelves.
ADHD diagnoses have increased significantly in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic led many adults to seek evaluation for the first time, often through telehealth platforms that made getting a diagnosis easier. More prescriptions being written means more demand for an already-constrained supply.
In 2022, Teva Pharmaceuticals — the largest manufacturer of generic Adderall — reported manufacturing delays that kicked off the shortage. While Teva and other manufacturers have worked to restore production, intermittent supply disruptions continue to affect specific dosage strengths and formulations.
Even when supply exists at the wholesale level, individual pharmacies may not be able to get it. Distributors allocate controlled substances based on historical purchasing patterns, which means a pharmacy that hasn't historically stocked a particular strength may struggle to order it — even if patients need it.
The situation is improving, but if you're still struggling to fill your prescription, here are practical steps you can take:
Medfinder helps you find pharmacies near you that have Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine in stock right now. Instead of calling pharmacy after pharmacy, you can check availability in seconds.
Large chain pharmacies often face the tightest supply constraints because they use centralized ordering systems. Independent pharmacies sometimes have more flexibility with their wholesalers and may have stock when chains don't. Ask your pharmacist if they can recommend a local independent option.
If your specific strength is unavailable, talk to your prescriber about whether a different strength or formulation could work. For example, if 20mg IR tablets are out of stock, two 10mg tablets might be available. Or your doctor may consider switching you to the XR formulation if you've been taking IR, or vice versa.
If Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine remains unavailable, there are other ADHD medications that may work for you. Options include Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse), Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta), Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine), or the non-stimulant Atomoxetine (Strattera). Read more in our article: Alternatives to Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine If You Can't Fill Your Prescription.
Many patients fill their controlled substance prescriptions at the beginning of the month, which can create temporary stockouts. If your refill window allows, try filling a day or two before the rush.
The Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine shortage has been frustrating for millions of patients who depend on this medication. While DEA quota increases and improved manufacturing are helping the situation, the reality is that finding this medication still takes extra effort in many parts of the country.
The most important thing you can do is stay proactive. Use tools like Medfinder to check availability, work closely with your prescriber, and explore your options. You deserve consistent access to your medication — and there are resources to help you get it.
For more tips, check out our full guide: How to Find Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine in Stock Near You.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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