Struggling to find Dextroamphetamine at your pharmacy? Learn why this ADHD medication is so hard to find in 2026 and what you can do about it.
You drop off your prescription for Dextroamphetamine, and the pharmacist tells you they're out of stock. You call around to other pharmacies — same story. It's frustrating, stressful, and unfortunately very common right now.
Dextroamphetamine has been one of the hardest medications to find in the United States since late 2022. And heading into 2026, patients are still dealing with empty shelves and long wait times. Let's break down exactly what's going on and what you can do about it.
Dextroamphetamine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant prescribed for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It works by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps improve focus, attention, and wakefulness.
You may know it by its brand names: Dexedrine, Dexedrine Spansule, Zenzedi, or ProCentra (an oral solution). It comes in immediate-release (IR) tablets and extended-release (ER) capsules.
As a Schedule II controlled substance, Dextroamphetamine is tightly regulated by the DEA — and that regulation is a big part of why it's so hard to find right now.
There's no single reason for the shortage. It's a combination of factors that have created a perfect storm for patients who depend on this medication.
The DEA sets strict limits — called Aggregate Production Quotas (APQs) — on how much of each controlled substance can be manufactured each year. For years, these quotas haven't kept pace with growing demand for ADHD medications.
In October 2025, the DEA raised the production quota for d-amphetamine from 21.2 million grams to 26.5 million grams. That's a significant increase, but experts say it still falls short of actual patient demand. Until quotas fully match the number of prescriptions being written, shortages will continue.
The current shortage traces back to October 2022, when Teva Pharmaceuticals — one of the largest generic manufacturers of amphetamine products — reported supply disruptions. When a major supplier stumbles, other manufacturers can't always pick up the slack quickly, especially when they're also limited by DEA quotas.
ADHD diagnosis rates have climbed significantly in recent years, particularly among adults. The expansion of telehealth during and after the COVID-19 pandemic made it easier for people to get evaluated and prescribed stimulant medications. More prescriptions mean more demand — and the supply chain hasn't caught up.
Even when Dextroamphetamine is being manufactured, individual pharmacies may not be able to get it. Large chain pharmacies often have centralized ordering systems that limit how much of a controlled substance each location can stock. Independent pharmacies sometimes have more flexibility, but they face their own supply chain hurdles.
The shortage is real, but you're not powerless. Here are some practical steps you can take:
Medfinder lets you search for Dextroamphetamine and see which pharmacies near you currently have it in stock. It's one of the fastest ways to avoid calling pharmacy after pharmacy.
Independent and compounding pharmacies often have different supply chains than the big chains. They may have stock when CVS, Walgreens, or Rite Aid don't. It's worth calling a few in your area.
If you've been unable to fill your prescription for weeks, ask your prescriber about temporary alternatives. Medications like Adderall, Vyvanse, or Methylphenidate may be more available in your area and could work for your situation.
Schedule II medications can typically be filled up to a few days before your current supply runs out (rules vary by state). Don't wait until you're completely out to try filling your prescription — start the process early to give yourself more time to locate stock.
If your pharmacy is out but expects a shipment, ask them to hold your prescription and notify you when it arrives. Some pharmacies can also place special orders from their distributor.
The Dextroamphetamine shortage has been going on for over three years now, and while the DEA's recent quota increases are a step in the right direction, patients are still feeling the impact in 2026. The best thing you can do is stay proactive — use tools like Medfinder, keep communication open with your prescriber, and explore all your options.
For more tips on locating your medication, check out our guide on how to find Dextroamphetamine in stock near you.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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