How parents can help manage ADHD symptoms during the current Adderall Shortage

For many who struggle with ADHD, management through medication can be a necessity for basic functioning. Since October of 2022, patients have reported problems filling nearly every type of ADHD medication. And what’s more, organizations like the FDA and The American Society of Health Pharmacists have given little or no information as to why the shortage exists  or when it is likely to end.

While natural symptom management isn’t often recommended by physicians as a first resort, given there hasn’t been a ton of research to validate efficacy, here are a few tips for parents struggling with the shortage to help manage symptoms and advocate for their children.

It may be a good idea to test out behavior therapy for your child’s ADHD first before resorting to other natural treatments. Behavior therapy for ADHD is a proven, effective treatment. It can educate your child, and other family members and loved ones how to live happy, healthy and productive lives with ADHD.

Look for a highly trained and reputable behavior therapy specialist for ADHD. It’s also a good idea to consult your doctor to see if they may have any recommendations for a practitioner. 

Excessive sugar intake can lead to upticks in spurts of energy, which can result in irritability and chemical imbalances within the brain that are associated with ADHD. Healthy foods rich in nutrients can reduce sugar intake and may be linked to improved brain function.

Exercise for children is beneficial for a myriad of reasons, but it also allows those who are struggling with ADHD symptoms to channel energy and improve sleep. Exercise can also help to regulate brain chemistry which may reduce ADHD symptoms.

It may also be a good idea to encourage your kiddo to play and exercise outside, weather permitting, and try to decrease screen time as much as possible.

If medication is a pre-requisite for managing your child’s symptoms, there are bio equivalents available to Adderall on the market, like Adzenys XR-ODT that can be substituted while the medication is in short supply.

Many bio equivalents must be directly requested by patients to their physicians, so it’s a good idea to do your homework and advocate for your little one’s health by requesting your preferred bio equivalent be ordered and in stock at your local pharmacy.

Though ADHD can be treated naturally without the assistance of medication, very little research has been performed on these treatments with respect to their effectiveness.

Talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of natural treatments for ADHD and what bio equivalents might be available. Your doctor can advise you on the right steps to take based on your child’s ADHD symptoms.