Multiple media sources are reporting a shortage of amphetamine mixed salts (“Adderall”) in the U.S. The American Society of Health System Pharmacies, or ASHP, has confirmed multiple manufacturers and dosages will be affected due to supply chain issues.
All brands (generic and brand name)
All formulations (both IR and ER)
All dosages
The answer is two-fold:
Stimulant medications are a “controlled substance”, meaning there is some potential for abuse. For this reason, prescriptions for controlled substances have additional regulations that other medications do not.
In addition to the nationwide supply issue, some pharmacies are hesitant to fill prescriptions for patients that are seen via telemedicine only. We are working to educate pharmacies about Circle Medical’s evidenced based care model, but a pharmacist is allowed to make their own individual decision. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility while we work hard at strengthening these relationships.
A controlled substance is a drug or medication that is tightly controlled by the government because it has the potential to be abused. The control applies to the way the substance is made, used, handled, stored, and distributed. Controlled substances include opioids, stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, and anabolic steroids. Reminder: stimulants are a controlled substance. You should have signed a “controlled substance agreement” during your visit with your PCP that highlights Circle Medical’s strict refill policy.
Stimulant medications may sometimes require a prior authorization approval from your insurance - this can take up to 72 hours. Insurance companies use the prior auth process to ensure you have the correct diagnosis for the indicated medication; you have tried their approved formulary medications for your diagnosis; and as a way to control costs overall.
Your provider will always prescribe a “generic” version when available, since the cash price will be cheaper. If you do not want to wait for your insurance to approve the PA, you can pay the cash price initially.
Stimulant medications have very similar mechanisms of action. They also have very similar side effects.
Side effects to watch out for:
Increase body temperature
Decrease desire to sleep
Decrease in appetite
Feelings of agitation
Unusual anxiety
Unusual paranoia / irrational worry
If you experience any of these symptoms, please book an appointment with your PCP immediately
