How to get prescribed Adderall for ADHD

For many people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the traditional approach of in-person doctor visits for an Adderall prescription may not be possible or desirable. Sitting in a waiting room is something you may want to avoid if you have ADHD. If you find yourself in this situation, you may be wondering how to get prescribed Adderall for ADHD treatment. 

In the guide, we explore the process of how to get prescribed Adderall. You’ll learn about how to find a reputable online provider, insurance coverage in different states, how Adderall works, and Adderall alternatives during a shortage.

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What symptoms is Adderall prescribed for?

Adderall contains amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. It’s an FDA-approved central nervous system stimulant that has been widely used to treat ADHD since 1996. It’s a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that affects brain signals to relieve ADHD symptoms. People taking it often find it easier to pay attention, control behavior, organize, and listen.

How does Adderall work?

Before seeking an ADHD prescription, it’s important to understand what Adderall and other similar medications treat and their potential side effects. Adderall is an amphetamine and a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant, a medication that triggers the release of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.

Dopamine helps with behavior control and the ability to complete tasks. Norepinephrine provides energy and alertness, which contributes to increased focus and memory. This effect on the brain can improve attention span, impulse control, focus, memory, and more.

But as with any type of medication, there are certain potential side effects to know. Below are some of the common side effects of taking Adderall tablets.

• Stomachache
• Decreased appetite
• Nervousness

The most common side effects of Adderall XR (extended-release) capsules in adults include:

• Dry mouth
• Loss of appetite
• Trouble sleeping
• Headache
• Weight loss
• Nausea
• Anxiety
• Agitation
• Dizziness
• Fast heartbeat
• Diarrhea
• Weakness
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Learn more about Adderall vs Adderall XR

How to get an Adderall prescription? Online vs. Offline

How to obtain an Adderall prescription through in-person doctor visits

Whether you think you have ADHD or you’ve already been diagnosed, you’re probably considering taking Adderall, but you need a prescription first. To get an Adderall prescription via an in-person doctor’s visit, follow these steps:

• Prepare for your visit: List your ADHD symptoms (e.g., impulsivity, difficulty sitting still, short attention span, trouble focusing, forgetfulness, losing things).
• Schedule an appointment: Book a visit with your primary care physician or a psychiatrist.
• Discuss your symptoms: Describe your current ADHD symptoms, referring to your prepared list, and explain how they impact your daily life.
• Answer honestly: Respond truthfully to your provider’s questions about your symptoms and any concerns you have.
• Express openness to medication: Inform your provider that you are open to considering Adderall as a treatment option. Based on your symptoms and current medications, they will recommend the most suitable treatment, which might include Adderall, alternative medications like Ritalin, therapy, or other approaches.

How to get prescribed Adderall online in 3 easy steps

Before COVID-19, it wasn’t possible for healthcare providers to prescribe controlled substances online. But during COVID-19, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) made it temporarily legal for prescribers to do so. The DEA has since issued 3 extensions to the Temporary Extension of COVID-19 Telemedicine Flexibilities for Prescription of Controlled Medications. Currently, the prescription of controlled substances, such as Adderall online, is possible through the end of 2025. 

That means you can get a prescription for Adderall online until then. Here’s how.

Step 1: Choose a telehealth provider to prescribe Adderall online

Whether you go into a provider’s office or prefer online appointments, you need a prescription from a healthcare professional to get Adderall. The provider also needs to determine that Adderall is medically necessary to treat your ADHD symptoms. So, the first step to getting a prescription online is choosing a telehealth provider. 

While many psychiatrists are available online, only those in the state you live in can give you a prescription for medications. Adderall is categorized as a Schedule II controlled substance by the DEA, making it illegal for healthcare providers to prescribe to patients outside the state where they practice. 

The telemedicine providers on Klarity Health live and practice throughout the U.S. All providers on Klarity Health have extensive experience evaluating patients for ADHD and prescribing Adderall online to help relieve its symptoms when appropriate.

Step 2: Book a virtual appointment to get your Adderall prescription online

Finding a telemedicine provider doesn’t immediately let you get Adderall online. Because Adderall is a controlled substance, to get an Adderall prescription, you must meet with a provider who determines that Adderall is medically necessary for you. The advantage of telemedicine is that you never have to leave the comfort of your home.

During a virtual appointment with your online provider, you’ll discuss your ADHD symptoms. This lets them make a diagnosis and determine if Adderall is the right prescription for your treatment goals.

Step 3: Get your Adderall prescription

If your online provider agrees that an Adderall prescription is a medically necessary part of your ADHD treatment plan, they’ll send your prescription to your pharmacy of choice. Your Adderall prescription will arrive right on your doorstep or at your local pharmacy, depending on the delivery options of your pharmacy.

Once you receive your prescription and begin taking it, you’ll have follow-up virtual appointments with your online provider to assess how it’s working for your ADHD symptoms. It’s important to follow your provider’s instructions for taking and adjusting your dosage. 

Important points about getting prescribed Adderall online

Even though the DEA extended the ability to get prescriptions online through 2025, it’s important to stay up-to-date with changes to make sure your provider can continue to renew your Adderall prescription. Different states have different policies on prescribing stimulants online. Schedule an online appointment with a licensed provider on Klarity Health in your state to discuss your best options. Note that not all providers on Klarity Health prescribe controlled substances.

Adderall is a controlled substance

Adderall is a widely prescribed medication composed of amphetamine salts that’s U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved to manage ADHD and narcolepsy. Under the United States Controlled Substances Act, Adderall is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance. This classification is based on its recognized medical uses but also its high potential for abuse, misuse, and addiction.

The criteria for classification under the Controlled Substances Act include factors such as the drug’s potential for abuse, the evidence of its medical benefits, and the likelihood of physical or psychological dependence. Adderall, as a Schedule II substance, is considered to have a high potential for abuse or physical dependence. It’s also recognized as having legitimate medical uses when prescribed and administered under proper medical supervision. 

Adderall can only be obtained with a valid prescription, and its use is closely monitored to prevent misuse and abuse. Understanding the risks associated with Adderall, such as potential side effects and the importance of responsible use, is important if you rely on it for treatment.

Potential side effects

The most common side effects of standard-release Adderall are stomachache, reduced  appetite, fast heartbeat, and nervousness.

Adderall XR has a few more common side effects for adults that include dry mouth, loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, headache, weight loss, nausea, anxiety, agitation, dizziness, fast heartbeat, diarrhea, weakness, and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

All forms of Adderall are Schedule II controlled substances because they can lead to dependency. They have an FDA boxed warning for the risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction. 

Before and while taking Adderall, talk to your provider about your health history and any history of substance abuse. If you have negative side effects while taking Adderall, you’re encouraged to report them to the FDA by visiting MedWatch or calling 1-800-FDA-1088.

Who should not take Adderall?

People with the following health issues and other factors shouldn’t take Adderall due to the increased risk of harm:

• History of allergic reactions. A history of allergic reaction to Adderall, amphetamine, or any of its ingredients.
• Currently taking or have recently taken an MAOI. Taking or having recently taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) may increase the risk of dangerously high blood pressure.
• Agitation. Adderall might worsen pre-existing agitation.
• Glaucoma. Adderal may lead to increased eye pressure and make glaucoma worse.
• Hyperthyroidism. Adderall may worsen hyperthyroidism or an overactive thyroid.
• High blood pressure or heart disease. Adderall may boost your risk of high blood pressure or heart issues or make your condition worse if you already have it.
• History of drug misuse. Adderall has a high risk of drug dependence and misuse. If you have a history of drug dependence or misuse, your provider may recommend another medication. 

How to get prescribed Adderall without insurance

You don’t need insurance to get prescribed Adderall. However, you need a prescription to get Adderall, so you need to meet with a healthcare provider — online or in person — to get a prescription.

Brand-name Adderall averages $12.34 per tablet, or up to $1,234 monthly. If you aren’t using insurance, there are ways to lower the price of your medication. The first is to ask your healthcare provider about the generic version — amphetamine-dextroamphetamine. A month’s supply of generic oral tablets costs $21.39–$52.79, and extended-release capsules range from $44.57–$828.93.

To lower the cost further, look into discounted prescription programs and pharmacy savings cards offered by your preferred pharmacy or services like SingleCare, WellRx, NeedyMeds, GoodRx, and others. You may be eligible for discounted medications based on your income or other circumstances.

A common approach to obtaining Adderall without insurance is to see a provider online through telehealth services. Many telemedicine platforms, like Klarity Health, offer competitive pricing on provider visits, making it an accessible and cost-effective option to get a prescription for the medication you need without insurance.

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*Appointments are generally available within 24 hours. Free initial consultations are available only with select providers. 

*Appointments are generally available within 24 hours. Free initial consultations are available only with select providers. 

How to talk to your ADHD provider about an Adderall prescription

Talking about ADHD with your doctor or healthcare provider is the only way to get Adderall online. However, discussing your ADHD can be difficult or abstract. It’s best to be clear, specific, and detailed when talking with your telemedicine provider so they can make an accurate diagnosis and determine whether an Adderall prescription can help you.

Below, we describe how best to explain your ADHD to a doctor so they can prescribe Adderall for your ADHD online (if indicated).

Describe your symptoms

Whether you suffer from ADHD or another condition, talk about what you’re going through with your therapist so they can help you in the best way possible. It helps to write down your symptoms before your virtual appointment so you can accurately describe your condition and don’t inadvertently leave anything out.

Several ADHD symptoms in adults occur. Accurately presenting the symptoms that you struggle with can help your provider determine whether prescribing Adderall online to you will help resolve these symptoms or if a different medication is better suited to your needs.

For help describing your ADHD symptoms, try this ADHD symptoms checklist and share your results with your doctor or provider. Or take this free online ADHD test and share your result with your doctor. Either can give you common talking points to use.

Answer your doctor’s questions accurately

Your doctor will ask you a number of questions to provide an accurate diagnosis. It’s important that you answer these questions as accurately as possible so your clinician can understand what you’re going through. 

Providing this kind of detail can help your doctor or provider better understand how your ADHD hinders your daily routine and if Adderall might help.

Provide a full medical history

Your full medical history will help your provider determine whether Adderall or another ADHD medication is right for you. Present any of your other health conditions, whether it’s a heart condition, mental health disorder, substance use disorder, or previous ADHD diagnosis. Tell your provider about any medications and supplements you take.

Health conditions and medication can conflict with taking Adderall for your ADHD, which is why it’s important to discuss your full medical history.

Adderall alternatives if you can’t find Adderall in stock

There’s an Adderall shortage in the U.S. If you’re having problems finding Adderall to help treat your ADHD symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider about a different CNS stimulant or non-stimulant for ADHD. 

Luckily for people with ADHD who can’t find Adderall, other ADHD medications have similar modes of action in the brain. 

Medications that work similarly to Adderall and are used to treat ADHD symptoms include:

• Concerta 
•  (methylphenidate)
• Focalin 
•  (dexmethylphenidate)
• Focalin XR (dexmethylphenidate)
• Metadate CD (methylphenidate)
• Quillivant 
•  XR (methylphenidate) 
• Ritalin 
•  (methylphenidate) 
• Intuniv
•  (guanfacine)
• Clonidine
•  (formerly Kapvay)
• Strattera 
• (atomoxetine) 
• Vyvanse 
• (lisdexamfetamine)
• Qelbree 
• (viloxazine)

If you want to know more about these Adderall alternatives, book an appointment with an ADHD-trained medical provider on Klarity Health today.

Get same-day Adderall prescription online from providers on Klarity Health

The providers on Klarity Health offer professional diagnoses and can prescribe the medication that best works for you if any. Klarity Health also offers free around-the-clock text messaging with your provider, who will monitor both your symptoms and side effects. And if Adderall isn’t the answer (or is unavailable), they can change your medication to a safe and effective Adderall alternative.

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