Recently I received an email from a psychiatrist in the northeast about the shortage of amphetamine salts for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). His patients are having difficulty filling their prescriptions and he was very concerned since they cannot function at work or school without their medication. Amphetamine salts include Adderall XR (extended release), Adderall (immediate release), and generic versions used for treating hyperactivity disorder in adults and children.

The shortage was first reported over the summer and included Adderall XR, Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and generic versions. The last update on the FDA website and dated 7/12/2011 for Adderall states that the shortage was due to supply issues associated with the active ingredient; uneven product distribution; and not enough finished product to meet demand. In that same report Shire, the manufacturer of Adderall XR indicated that supply had improved. In a recent conversation with Shire they indicated that shortage of Adderall XR that occurred over the summer has been resolved. Some reports suggested that shortage of the active ingredient was due to increased demand and the DEA is unable to release active ingredient fast enough. Regardless of the reason the pain is real for patients, families and healthcare providers.

One local pharmacy confirmed that availability was an issue but mostly for the Adderall 10 mg dose. Barr Laboratories (1-800-222-0190) the manufacturer of Adderall and generic Adderall recently confirmed that there is a shortage that may not be resolved until early next year.

If this shortage impacts you here are some suggestions:

• Check with your local pharmacy and ask the pharmacy to locate a supply before your medication runs out.
• Brand name may be available so patients may consider brand name if they can pay or if their insurance will cover it due to a shortage.
• Adderall XR is available which may be an option for some patients.
• Shire, the manufacturer of Adderall XR provided a pharmacy locator number during the summer shortage: 1-800-828-2088 select “Option 5”. Barr Laboratories does not have a pharmacy locator because they ship directly to wholesalers instead of pharmacies. They can be reached at 1-800-222-0190.
• Not all strengths were equally affected so depending on the strength required some patients may not be impacted.

Anyone with further details or suggestions about this situation can let me know via twitter @rxeconsult or use the contact us link in the lower navigation bar of this website.

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