The FDA reports that many of the ADHD treatment deficiencies in the U.S. over the past two years have been settled. However, some doctors and patients are still encountering challenges in getting prescriptions filled.
FDA Says ADHD Medication Shortages in US Have Been Resolved
Dr. Royce Lee, a psychiatrist at the University of Chicago Medicine, noted that while the quantity has made better, about a third of his patients still face concerns. This often requires him to call various pharmacies, switch medications, and coordinate with insurance companies to ensure coverage.
"There are signs of the shortages easing," Lee said. "But there are still enough shortages that we have to work daily to change or locate prescriptions."
"I think many people are still not getting their treatments," he added.
The FDA's drug shortage database now shows that nine manufacturers have ADHD medications back in stock, up from six last September.
Teva Pharmaceuticals has resolved all shortages except for a 5-milligram dose, while SpecGx has restocked all dosages of its generic Vyvanse. Aurobindo Pharma expects to have its generic Adderall back in stock by September.
Despite these improvements, the high demand for these medications may continue to strain supply. An FDA spokesperson said more supply is expected soon as a new manufacturer, US Pharma Windlas, has started distributing doses.
"The FDA is working closely with manufacturers and the supply chain to understand and mitigate the impact of intermittent availability," the spokesperson said.
Challenges Patients Face in Getting Their Medications
The CDC reports that about 6 million children and teens have been diagnosed with ADHD, along with millions of adults, some of whom may not be familiar with their situations.
Despite the supply improvements, some patients still face challenges in getting their treatments. Kaja Moen, 30, from Asheville, North Carolina, had her medication switched due to a price increase but found it on backorder. After contacting several pharmacies, she eventually got her prescription filled by chance.
"There's still uncertainty about whether I can get a refill next month," Moen said. "Without my medication, I struggle with focus and motivation."
ADHD treatments are essential for enhancing concentration and lessening impulsive behavior. Without them, patients can face essential difficulties in both personal and professional settings, said Dr. David Goodman, an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.
Goodman noted that the issue is variable and can depend on geography and pharmacy distribution.
At the University of Chicago Medicine, a dedicated pharmacist helps regulate ADHD treatment prescriptions. Dr. Michael Kane, a child and adolescent psychiatrist at the UNC Medical Center, said that while deficiencies have progressed, patients still need to call pharmacies in advance to guarantee they can get their treatments.
"It's better, but it's highly variable," Goodman said. "Patients need to form relationships with their local pharmacists to know when medications are back in stock."
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