Adderall Shortage Alarm - There Is A Way Out!

We have got some news, people! Adderall, the silver bullet in treating Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is in short supply and may remain so for the foreseeable future, says the higher-ups. Though shortages were first reported over the summer, and the news has been going around for quite some time now, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confirmed it only a few weeks back. Apparently, some users claim the announcement was a belated acknowledgment of a reality they had been dealing with for months. Particularly the pharmacies that could not fill their orders and have been functioning with anxiety about running out of this medication. Taking you further into the topic…

1. To All Those Who Wonder What Adderall Is

Adderall is a drug that particularly stimulates the human central nervous system and gets prescribed to people suffering from ADHD and narcolepsy. It works in the brain by enhancing the levels of certain neurotransmitters that improve attention and focus. With drugs, there is always a con, right? Well, for people with anxiety, this focus stimulant is not a good choice as it works negatively for them and reportedly worsens their anxiety situation.

2. Why the Shortage?

High Demand – A surge in demand for ADHD treatment could also be at play. The transition to virtual classes for students, the solitude of working from home for adults, and missing out on opportunities to socialize during the COVID season, have contributed to the pronounced effects of ADHD in many. Which seemingly has increased this healer drug’s demand.

Widespread Awareness – As you know, our communities have started caring about mental health a lot more than we used to. This has increased awareness of ADHD and the significance of seeking medical help for it. And, of course, this “mental health matters” era has driven an increase in Adderall usage. Furthermore, the rise in telehealth services has made it easier for many people to access healthcare, which, again, might be a reason for this shortage.

Manufacturing Constraints – Every year, pharmaceutical companies must provide a request to the Drug Enforcement Agency and the Food and Drug Administration for the raw material they intend to use for Adderall production that year. But because Adderall contains amphetamines, a controlled substance with strict regulations, companies are prohibited from selling them to other businesses. Given these constraints, it can be difficult for manufacturers to develop new products and for drug stores to pivot quickly to new brands.

3. Is There a Quick-Fix?

While a quick fix is unavailable, alternative methods to combat ADHD could be a topic to discuss. Reach out to your doctor for other options that can help you meet your needs in the interim, and you may need to consider other prescription medications for ADHD. A prescription medicine, we specify again! Let us leave that to the doctors. Do not get a pill the internet told you without a doctor’s advice. Furthermore, a mental health professional can also provide behavior therapy, social skills training, parent skills training, and counseling to people with ADHD.

We do agree that ADHD is not easy, but combating it can be made easy with proper support. Seek help from a professional, and let this shortage not be a biggie in your head. Know that you are not alone; we can overcome this together.