Is there a Vyvanse or Adderall shortage right now? In part, yes — the answer depends on which medication and which form. The dated status below is updated as conditions change; if your pharmacy can’t fill your prescription, the steps that follow still apply.

Shortage status — as of July 2026: Generic amphetamine mixed salts (generic Adderall and Adderall XR) remain in shortage at many pharmacies. Brand-name Vyvanse is generally available, while generic lisdexamfetamine supply is inconsistent across strengths and manufacturers. Out-of-pocket costs have been climbing, and no confirmed end date has been announced. For medication-specific status, check the live FDA Drug Shortages database and ASHP’s current shortages list.

Why the Shortage Happened

Three factors drove the stimulant shortage:

  1. Increased demand. Adult ADHD diagnoses rose sharply after COVID-19, as telehealth expanded access to evaluation and treatment — outpacing supply.
  2. Manufacturing limitations. Producers faced ingredient constraints and production delays, and as controlled substances, amphetamine salts and lisdexamfetamine are heavily regulated at every step.
  3. DEA production quotas. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration sets annual production limits for stimulant medications, which slowed manufacturers’ ability to respond to rising demand.

What Connecticut Patients Can Do

  • Talk to your prescriber early. Don’t wait until you’re out of medication. If a fill is delayed, Suzanne can discuss timing, alternatives, or an equivalent strength that’s in stock.
  • Call multiple pharmacies, including independent pharmacies — availability varies pharmacy to pharmacy, week to week.
  • Ask about alternatives. Generic versions, a different strength, methylphenidate-based medications, or non-stimulant options may be appropriate — any change is a clinical decision made with your prescriber, not a pharmacy swap.
  • Reinforce non-medication supports. Structure, sleep, exercise, and skills-based strategies (including CBT) don’t replace medication, but they help most during gaps.

How This Practice Handles Shortages

When a shortage affects your prescription, Suzanne works through options with you directly as part of ongoing ADHD care and medication management — never leaving you to sort it out alone at the pharmacy counter.

Getting ADHD Care in Connecticut

Suzanne Gallagher, PMHNP-BC, provides adult ADHD evaluation and medication management in person in New Canaan and by telehealth throughout Connecticut. She is in-network with Aetna, Cigna, Oxford, UnitedHealthcare, and Optum; out-of-network patients receive a superbill for reimbursement. Request an appointment to get started.