Hi LIFE Medicine Family!
We are wanting to check in and update you on some clinic happenings – happy fall y’all!
At our clinic, we have seen hundreds of adults diagnosed with attention deficit disorder (ADD), or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or that have attention challenges. Some people are on very high doses of stimulants, with others needing high blood pressure medications to regulate their systems. Patients may have noticed the increased difficulty in filling their Adderall prescriptions in a timely fashion since the start of the New Year and are starting to ask “What gives?”
Many pharmacies across the metro area are currently experiencing difficulties filling prescriptions for the drug due to nationwide shortages – more than 6 in 10 report difficulty in obtaining the drug, according to the National Community Pharmacists Association. According to reports, the problem is only going to get worse before it will get better.
As the world worked to find its footing again after the pandemic ended in 2021, the nation saw an increase in Adderall prescriptions going up to 41 million from 37 million just the year before. Researchers and providers alike have suggested that the rise in demand has been linked to the ongoing pandemic as we see more individuals struggling with depression and anxiety.
In addition to the increased use seen nationwide, government regulation is also playing a role. Per the DEA – Adderall and other ADHD treatments are classed as scheduled substances that can be habit forming, as such the DEA sets quotas as to how much of these drugs can be produced. The quota set by the DEA is projection based on current usage and typically is not fluid enough to meet surges in demand.
This shortage is having a major impact on patients, healthcare professionals, and providers alike. As such, we would like to take the opportunity to invite patients to discuss alternative solutions for ADD/ADHD management.
As our clinic works to adapt and navigate the ever changing landscape presented by the healthcare industry, we ask for you to please understand – we know this medicine is important, however it does not take priority over other clinic matters that may be more urgent or medical emergencies. Please be sure to stay current with your follow up appointments to avoid lapses and delays with any medications.
We would like to remind patients – as we are not responsible for pharmacies being out of stock of medications, there is a $50 administrative fee associated with prescription transfer requests or bridge refills when appointments are missed/follow-up is not completed, or a pharmacy is delayed filling your Rx and you request a transfer to another pharmacy. There are many administrative and clinical steps when transferring/filling a controlled substance, so this fee is now required, or you may schedule another appointment.
While we understand the inconvenience and challenges present with the current shortage, if you cannot secure a supply of the medication, please consider taking the opportunity to speak with the provider about other helpful treatment options, both in addition to, or in place of, stimulants like Adderall.
An integrative approach or one of our services at our sister clinic Heartmind Medicine may be the answer you have been looking for! If you would like to receive a brain map, be evaluated for ADD or another mental health concern, or learn more about the alternatives to stimulants listed above then please contact us at 800.651.7126, or through one of our clinic websites — LIFEMedicineHealth.com or HeartmindMedicine.com — You are not alone! We are here to support you.
In Health and Healing…
Brent Jaster, MD
Care Marten (Practice Manager)
LIFE Medicine
