ADHD Medication: What should I do if my child’s medication runs out during the shortage?

If you’re having trouble getting your child’s attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) prescription, you’re certainly not alone. Families across the United States are dealing with a shortage of ADHD medication that was first reported in October 2022 and is now in its second year.

I’ve heard stories of parents and caregivers who had to drive 50 miles (80 kilometers) to find a pharmacy with the same brand and dosage that their child usually receives. Some have tried to limit the amount of food or skip medication altogether, with a significant impact on their children’s well-being. Many have asked their doctors to recommend different types, which do not always work as there is a lack of different types of ADHD medication.

To make matters worse, the cost of ADHD medication has skyrocketed across the country, federal data show. This has caused problems for all families, especially those living on a tight budget.

No one can say with certainty when the current deficit will end. However, there may be things you can do to reduce the impact on your child (and your stress levels).

Talk to your child’s doctor to review your options

In recent months it has been difficult to find brand name medications such as Adderall XR, Vyvanse, Focalin, Metadate and Concerta. If your child receives one of these drugs or their equivalent, continue to work with your child’s doctor. For example, you might want to schedule a time to discuss whether or not it’s appropriate:

• Using the long or short form of the same drug

• Taking a different drug may be better tolerated

• Try a generic version of your regular medicine (if available)

Let your pediatrician know what’s going on so you can work together as a team. Every child and family is different – you may need to adjust your plan to support your child in the coming months.

Find ways to save money on the medicines your child needs

The high prices of ADHD medications may tempt you to limit your child’s dosage. Instead, consider investing in a recipe that works best for your child. Your pediatrician may have suggestions, as many new (non-prescription) drugs offer coupons and financial assistance programs.

If your family has prescription drug coverage, check to see which ADHD medications your insurance covers. Then you can talk to your pediatrician about other options. It may be worth checking the handbook of your preferred insurance company. These can offer better pricing on accepted orders.

Some medications may require prior approval from your insurance company and additional time for approval. In these cases, your child’s doctor can provide more information about why these medications should be covered.

Explore other ways to help relieve ADHD symptoms

If your child’s ADHD symptoms have been well managed so far, you may not have explored other effective ways to help manage them. Remember that these methods do not replace your child’s medication, but can be part of a comprehensive plan.

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  School grants. If ADHD is affecting your child at school, talk to the teacher or principal to see if supports are available. Examples of school support systems include daily report cards, assignments, or meetings with a counselor about learning skills.

  Publicly funded schools may consider whether a child is eligible to participate in a 504 plan or individualized education plan (IEP).

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  Free time outside. Much research points to the importance of spending time outdoors in relieving ADHD symptoms. Even 20 minutes in a natural environment can improve concentration and attention. Look for open spaces where you can walk together or encourage safe, secure play.

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  Mind and conscious movement. Some studies show that children living with ADHD can benefit from cognitive activities. An example might be identifying their surroundings using their five senses. Or, they can practice slow, controlled breathing, following their fingers or a square shape to know when to inhale and when to exhale.

  Activities like these can help with attention control problems or depression associated with ADHD. Additionally, other mindfulness and movement activities, such as yoga and yoga, have small studies showing potential benefits.

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  For older children,
  
  independent project of order and calm. Teens and young adults can feel more focused and in control if they create their own routines. Here are 4 ways you can support.

Remember that your child’s doctor is on your side

If it seems like no one understands what you and your child are going through right now, know that your pediatrician is worried, too. We are very concerned about the lack of ADHD medication. In many cases, we also strive to help children who are waiting for other medicines that are in short supply.

Since most ADHD prescriptions are controlled substances under federal law, doctors must follow very specific rules when prescribing them. Chemicals face the same strict requirements, which is why they cannot transfer a prescription to a new location. The best they can do is suggest another pharmacy that may have the equipment available.

Once you pass this information on to your child’s doctor, a new prescription should be sent through the electronic controlled substance system. By the time you get to the pharmacy hoping for a refill, you may find that it has run out within minutes of your doctor ordering it. For this reason, it may be a good idea to call the pharmacy first to make sure they have the medication and can fill the prescription.

How Pediatricians Advocate for Children and Families

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is committed to doing everything we can to address future shortages of the medications your child depends on to focus, learn and manage daily activities. We are actively working with legislators and government agencies to find real solutions.

AAP supports Drug Abuse Prevention Act (Drug Abuse Prevention Act – in English) of 2023. This is a bipartisan bill before Congress that would require drug manufacturers to notify the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) when they see an increase in demand for essential drugs. The FDA does not have direct control over the distribution of drugs. However, being able to identify deficits early would allow for better collaboration and planning, which would facilitate the impact of children and families.

Pediatricians are also concerned about the rising cost of ADHD medication, which adds to the burden many families face in caring for children living with ADHD. Issues like this have a disproportionate and unfair impact on millions of young people who already face a high risk of mental health problems. The AAP advocates for greater access to insurance plans that help cover costs while seeking solutions to rising drug costs.

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