Home > ADHD Stimulant Shortage > Dexedrine
By Ryan S. Sultan, MD
Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center
Data updated:
Quick Answer: Is There a Dexedrine Shortage?Not as of October 8, 2026. The FDA Drug Shortages Database has no current shortage listing for dextroamphetamine on its own (Dexedrine, Zenzedi and their generics). It does list mixed amphetamine salts tablets (Adderall), which contain dextroamphetamine, with 19 of 73 listings unavailable and 9 limited. The full ADHD stimulant shortage picture | Schedule a consultation |
FDA status, October 2026
This page is generated from the FDA Drug Shortages Database and refreshed monthly. A listing is one package (NDC) a manufacturer reports; counts describe how many products are affected, not how much supply exists.
No package listing for dextroamphetamine on its own (Dexedrine, Zenzedi and their generics) appears in the database this month. An unlisted product can still be hard to find at a particular pharmacy, because the database tracks national supply reported by manufacturers, not local stock.
Switching: what the label says
Dexedrine Spansule capsules are long-acting; the label states they "may be used for once-a-day dosage wherever appropriate." Searches for a dextroamphetamine shortage often refer to Adderall, which contains dextroamphetamine salts and is listed separately.
Source: Dexedrine Spansule prescribing information (DailyMed). The within-class substitution principles on the main shortage page cover switching more broadly.
If your pharmacy can't fill it
- Call before the prescription is sent. Ask whether the exact strength is in stock, and which manufacturer's product they carry.
- Ask about another strength combination. Two tablets or capsules of a lower strength can make the same dose when one strength is short. This needs a new prescription written that way.
- Ask about another form of the same medication before changing medications, using the label rule above.
- Bring your prescriber the specifics: the strength, what the pharmacy has, and when they expect resupply. The patient framework on the main shortage page goes through this in order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a Dexedrine shortage right now?
Not as of October 8, 2026. The FDA Drug Shortages Database has no current shortage listing for dextroamphetamine on its own (Dexedrine, Zenzedi and their generics). It does list mixed amphetamine salts tablets (Adderall), which contain dextroamphetamine, with 19 of 73 listings unavailable and 9 limited.
What can I take if Dexedrine is unavailable?
Dexedrine Spansule capsules are long-acting; the label states they "may be used for once-a-day dosage wherever appropriate." Searches for a dextroamphetamine shortage often refer to Adderall, which contains dextroamphetamine salts and is listed separately. Any switch should be made with your prescriber.
Related
ADHD stimulant shortage: causes and strategy · Vyvanse · Adderall XR · Concerta · Ritalin · Focalin · Concerta vs Ritalin · Non-stimulant options
Educational information only. Not medical advice. Do not change a dose or medication without your prescriber.