U.S. OKs More Vyvanse Production Amid ADHD Shortage

Addressing the ADHD Drug Shortage: US Allows Increased Vyvanse Production

Background: The Ongoing Shortage

The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has taken steps to address the ongoing shortage of Vyvanse, an ADHD medication, by increasing its production by around 24 percent. This move aims to ensure that the country has an adequate and uninterrupted supply of the drug to meet the needs of patients both domestically and globally.

Request from the FDA

The DEA’s decision follows a request from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to increase production. The FDA’s request was made in July and was based on the need to address the ongoing shortage of Vyvanse and other ADHD medications.

History of the Shortage

The shortage of Adderall, a similar medication often prescribed for ADHD and narcolepsy, was first reported by the FDA in 2022. At the time, Teva Pharmaceuticals, the largest supplier of Adderall in the US, was experiencing supply disruptions. As a result, the shortage of Vyvanse, also known as lisdexamfetamine, began to spread.

Classified as a Schedule II Controlled Substance

Lisdexamfetamine is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the DEA due to its potential for abuse and high probability of addiction.

Production Limit Increased

In response to the shortage, the DEA has increased the production limit for lisdexamfetamine by 6,236 kilograms. Of this amount, 4,678 kilograms is for increased foreign demand and 1,558 kilograms is for domestic use.

Future Export Requirements

The DEA expects that future export requirements for lisdexamfetamine will continue to increase. As such, an increase in domestic manufacturing of the active pharmaceutical ingredient and finished dosages is necessary to supply products to foreign markets.

Impact on Patients

This increase in production is aimed at ensuring that patients with ADHD have access to the medication they need. Extrapolation of previous data suggests that the demand for lisdexamfetamine will continue to increase, making it essential to ensure a stable supply.

Conclusion

The DEA’s decision to increase Vyvanse production is a welcome step in addressing the ongoing shortage of ADHD medications. This move will help to ensure that patients have access to the medication they need, both domestically and globally.

FAQs

Q: What is the cause of the Vyvanse shortage?

A: The shortage is caused by a combination of factors, including supply disruptions by the largest supplier of Vyvanse, Teva Pharmaceuticals, and increased demand for the medication.

Q: How will this increase in production affect patients?

A: This increase in production will ensure that patients have access to the medication they need, both domestically and globally.

Q: Is Vyvanse addictive?

A: Yes, Vyvanse is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the DEA due to its potential for abuse and high probability of addiction.

Q: How will this increase in production affect export requirements?

A: The DEA expects that future export requirements for lisdexamfetamine will continue to increase, making it essential to ensure a stable supply of the medication.

Q: What are the long-term implications of this shortage?

A: The long-term implications of this shortage are yet to be determined, but it is essential to address the shortage now to prevent further disruptions to the supply chain.