Stock issues with controlled substances like Adderall and Vyvanse are common and usually temporary. A pharmacy can be out of stock because of manufacturing delays or national medication shortages, but you have options to get your prescription filled.
Pharmacies often restock within 7 days, and rerouting your prescription usually isn't faster than waiting. Start with a phone call to your pharmacy to find out what options are available.
Call your pharmacy first
Ask these three questions:
When will you restock?
Do you have generic options available?
Do you have alternative strengths that add up to my daily dose?
If they're low on stock, mention that you're an established patient with an ongoing treatment plan. Pharmacists have discretion over who they fill for, and that context can help.
What to do next
If your pharmacy is restocking soon, waiting is usually the fastest option.
If generic or different strengths are available, start a chat in the mobile app or web portal so the Care Team can request a rewrite from your provider.
If there isn't a restock date and no alternatives are available, follow the reroute steps below.
Tip: If you're worried about encountering stock issues in the future, tell your provider during your next appointment, and ask them for alternative options.
Steps for requesting a prescription reroute
Read our article for steps on reroutes for non-controlled substance prescriptions.
Controlled substance prescriptions can't be transferred between pharmacies. Your provider has to send a new one, which is why this takes a few days.
1: Find a nearby pharmacy
Each pharmacy has different policies, so you’ll need to find a pharmacy that will accept your controlled substance prescription.
To help with your search, see our list of pharmacies that accept controlled substance prescriptions.
2: Call the new pharmacy to confirm that they'll fill your prescription
Are you accepting new patients for controlled substances?
Do you have my medication in stock?
Will you fill controlled substances for patients who have been seen in virtual appointments?
Important note: Some pharmacies won't confirm stock over the phone unless you already have a prescription with them. Stopping by in person often works better.
3: Update your Circle Medical preferred pharmacy in your account settings
4: Start a chat to request for your prescription to be rerouted to your new pharmacy
Select 'Prescriptions,' then follow the prompts to request a reroute to your new pharmacy.
Your provider will review the request and either approve it in your Secure Care Inbox, or share next steps with you or through the Care Team.
Important notes:
Reroute requests can take up to 3 business days to complete. Please allow 3 full business days before requesting an update.
If your reroute request is urgent, book an appointment with your provider for more immediate care.
If you run into any issues along the way, please start a chat. The Care Team is here to support you!