Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Medication Shortages: What's Happening and What to Do If You Can't Find Yours
What should I do if my ADHD medication is out of stock? Call several pharmacies ahead, request your refill early, don't change or stop your dose on your own, and talk to your prescriber about alternatives.
✦ Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) medication shortages: 5 products are "Currently in Shortage," according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). ◇ Call pharmacies ahead · ◇ Refill early · ◇ Don't change your dose on your own.
If your pharmacy has told you that your Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) medication is out of stock, you're not alone. As of October 31, 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Drug Shortages Database lists five ADHD medication products as "Currently in Shortage":
• Amphetamine Aspartate Monohydrate, Amphetamine Sulfate, Dextroamphetamine Saccharate, Dextroamphetamine Sulfate Tablet (the combination often known as mixed amphetamine salts)
• Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate Capsule
• Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate Tablet, Chewable
• Methylphenidate Film, Extended Release
• Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Tablet, Extended Release
A shortage doesn't always mean a medication is impossible to find. Supply can vary from one pharmacy to another and from one week to the next, and some strengths or forms may be available while others aren't. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) updates its database as the situation changes.
What to do if you can't find your medication
• Call ahead. Before you go, call several pharmacies (chain and independent) to ask whether they have your exact medication and strength in stock.
• Request your refill early. Don't wait until your last pill. Ask for your refill as early as your pharmacy and your plan allow, so there's time to look elsewhere if needed.
• Don't stop or change your dose on your own. Don't skip doses, split pills to make them last, or take someone else's medication. Any change should be decided with the person who prescribes for you.
• Talk to your prescriber about alternatives. If you can't find it, let your care team know. They can tell you whether another strength, form, or medication could be an option for you.
What does this mean for you? If you're an Oasis Mental Care patient and your pharmacy can't fill your prescription, write to us. We'll review your situation with you and look at options safely. We can't promise availability, but you don't have to solve it alone.
Isabel's Clinical Reflection
"A shortage can be stressful, especially when your medication helps you function at work or at home. The most important thing is not to improvise with your doses. Call us early, and let's find the safest plan together."
Trusted sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), “Drug Shortages Database”the federal agency that regulates medications in the U.S. and tracks drug shortages.
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At Oasis Mental Care, Isabel Zapata, PMHNP-BC, provides compassionate, evidence-based bilingual consultations and medication management across DE, FL, OR, SC, and WA.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Medication Shortages: What's Happening and What to Do If You Can't Find Yours
Official voice narration in English with Isabel's clinical reflections