A spike in the use of ADHD medications during the pandemic likely prompted drug shortages that continue to frustrate patients and doctors today, a new study shows.
According to research published Jan. 10 in the journal JAMA Psychiatry, the number of new prescriptions for stimulants—which treat the condition—rose for young adults and women in particular after the pandemic first struck in March 2020.
According to researchers under the direction of Grace Chai, prescriptions for non-stimulant ADHD medications for individuals of all ages have also increased. She works in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, specifically in the Office of Surveillance and Epidemiology. Why the surge? The mental and emotional strain of the pandemic, coupled with an increased use of telemedicine that made it easier for patients to get help, were big contributors, experts said.
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Dr. Ann Childress, a psychiatrist in Las Vegas, told the Associated Press that when lockdowns and the COVID-19 pandemic began to spread across the nation, more adults began seeking her care. Some people found it obvious how easily they were sidetracked when working from home. Childress claims she diagnosed many parents, particularly mothers, who saw it in their kids and realized it in themselves. Furthermore, social media has increased public awareness of adult ADHD.
“There is an increased willingness to discuss mental health concerns these days,” stated Childress, who did not participate in the research. In October 2022, a shortage of Adderall started due to manufacturing issues and an increase in the use of ADHD therapies. Regrettably, there is currently a shortage of certain treatments. “Roughly ten items are in short supply every week,” stated Childress. Even while they work to estimate future demand for the medications, federal officials do restrict the manufacturing of some ADHD stimulant medicines because they are controlled substances.
However, Mike Ganio, a medicine shortage researcher at the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), pointed out that forecasting demand is difficult at best and that shortages can be brought on by unanticipated spikes in usage. It’s an enterprise. He clarified, “Nobody wants to create more or keep more goods on their shelves than is necessary. Last October, the ASHP reported that there were more than 300 drug shortages in the US. In addition to ADHD medications, there is still a persistent scarcity of cancer medicines.
Frequently asked questions
Why is there a shortage of ADHD medication?
The main two Adderall suppliers blamed the shortages on rising demand in emails they sent to USA TODAY, but experts point out that other variables, like federal production limits on banned medications, also had an impact.
How do you deal with the Adderall shortage?
- Establish a relationship with your local pharmacy.
- Ask about alternative doses of your usual medication.
- See if your doctor could temporarily switch you to another medication.
- Talk to your doctor about whether Adderall is really the right drug for you.
What are the alternatives to Adderall during the shortage?
Ritalin, Concerta, and Daytrana (methylphenidate); Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine); and Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) are stimulant substitutes for Adderall. The nonstimulant drugs Strattera (atomoxetine), Intuniv (guanfacine), and Kapvay (clonidine) are substitutes for Adderall.
Why is the Adderall shortage lasting so long?
The biggest Adderall supplier in the United States, Teva Pharmaceuticals, experienced a setback at one of its manufacturing facilities, which first caused the shortage. However, since that disruption has been fixed, the continued scarcity is now attributed to increased demand exceeding supply from pharmaceutical companies.
What drug is currently in shortage?
Current Drug Shortages
| Generic Name | Revision Date |
|---|---|
| Chlorothiazide Sodium Injection | November 29, 2023 |
| Ciprofloxacin Injection | January 8, 2024 |
| Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic Solution | March 22, 2023 |
| Cisatracurium Besylate Injection | August 11, 2022 |
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