Lisdexamfetamine

How Hard Is It to Find Lisdexamfetamine in Stock?

Lisdexamfetamine has a findability score of 45 out of 100, meaning it is moderately difficult to find in stock at your local pharmacy. As of early 2026, Lisdexamfetamine remains on the ASHP drug shortage list. The shortage began in late 2022 as part of the broader ADHD stimulant crisis driven by surging demand — particularly among adults diagnosed post-pandemic — combined with DEA production quota limits and manufacturing constraints.

The DEA raised aggregate production quotas by approximately 24% in late 2025 and approved further increases of up to 25% for 2026, but supply has not yet caught up with demand. Multiple generic manufacturers including Teva, Sandoz, Amneal, and others have reported limited supply. Brand Vyvanse from Takeda is generally more available but costs significantly more.

If your pharmacy is out of stock, Medfinder can help you locate Lisdexamfetamine at nearby pharmacies that currently have it available.

Who Can Prescribe Lisdexamfetamine?

As a Schedule II controlled substance, Lisdexamfetamine must be prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider with DEA prescribing authority. Common prescribers include:

• Psychiatrists — Most commonly prescribe Lisdexamfetamine, especially for complex ADHD or BED cases
• Primary Care Physicians / Family Medicine — Often manage straightforward ADHD in both children and adults
• Pediatricians — Prescribe for children aged 6 and older with ADHD
• Neurologists — May prescribe for ADHD or off-label neurological uses
• Internal Medicine Physicians — Can prescribe for adult patients

Telehealth providers can also prescribe Lisdexamfetamine, though DEA regulations for Schedule II controlled substances require specific compliance measures. Note that Lisdexamfetamine cannot be called in or e-prescribed in some states — a written prescription may be required.

Is Lisdexamfetamine a Controlled Substance?

Yes, Lisdexamfetamine is classified as a Schedule II (CII) controlled substance by the DEA. This is the same classification as medications like Adderall, OxyContin, and Ritalin — drugs with high medical value but significant potential for abuse and dependence.

The FDA boxed warning states: "CNS stimulants, including lisdexamfetamine, have a high potential for abuse and dependence. Assess the risk of abuse prior to prescribing and monitor for signs of abuse and dependence while on therapy."

Because of its Schedule II status:

• Prescriptions cannot be refilled — a new prescription is required each month
• Many states limit prescriptions to 30-day supplies
• Prior authorization from insurance is common
• DEA production quotas limit how much can be manufactured each year, which has contributed to the ongoing shortage

Common Side Effects of Lisdexamfetamine

The most frequently reported side effects include:

• Decreased appetite — The most common side effect, especially in the first few weeks
• Insomnia — Take in the morning to minimize sleep disruption
• Dry mouth
• Irritability
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Anxiety
• Weight loss
• Upper abdominal pain
• Increased heart rate

Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include cardiovascular events (chest pain, shortness of breath), psychiatric symptoms (psychosis, mania, aggression), peripheral vasculopathy (Raynaud's phenomenon), and seizures. Contact your doctor or seek emergency care if you experience any of these.

Final Thoughts on Lisdexamfetamine

Lisdexamfetamine remains one of the most widely prescribed medications for ADHD and Binge Eating Disorder, but the ongoing shortage — now stretching into its third year — continues to frustrate patients and providers alike. With a findability score of 45/100, many patients will encounter out-of-stock situations at their regular pharmacy.

The good news: the DEA has significantly raised production quotas for 2026, and multiple generic manufacturers are working to increase output. Prices have also become more accessible with generics available as low as $60–$70 per month using discount cards.

If you're struggling to find Lisdexamfetamine, use Medfinder to search pharmacies near you that have it in stock. You can also ask your pharmacist about partial fills, check independent pharmacies (which often have better stock than chain pharmacies), or discuss alternative medications with your doctor as a temporary bridge.