*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.
In order to get prescribed Adderall online, you will first need to find an online psychiatry provider who can and will prescribe controlled substances. Not all online platforms will prescribe stimulant medications like Adderall due to special regulations for controlled substances. State laws can affect access as well.
Your primary care physician may be able to refer you to a prescriber who can evaluate you and prescribe Adderall. If you are looking to access your prescription online, we have thoroughly reviewed Circle Medical, an online platform that prescribes stimulants like Adderall, and found it to be a good place to get started with an evaluation. If your provider feels Adderall is a good fit for your ADHD symptoms, they may prescribe you Adderall online.
Boxed Warning: amphetamine, dextroamphetamine mixed salts (Adderall) - Risk of medication misuse or abuse
Adderall has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Amphetamines, an active ingredient in Adderall, have a risk of misuse (abuse) which can lead to dependence on the medication, serious heart conditions, and even sudden death.
Adderall is a controlled substance, which means that it’s more likely to be misused or cause dependence. There are federal and state laws that limit the amount of medication that can be prescribed or dispensed within a certain period of time.
Key takeaways for getting prescribed Adderall online
To get prescribed Adderall online, start by getting an evaluation from an online provider who can and will prescribe controlled substances, such as Circle Medical and ADHD Online.
Adderall alternatives may be necessary for some to consider, including both stimulant and nonstimulant medications.
Brand name Adderall can cost between $317-$364 for a 30-day supply of the smallest dosage available without insurance. Adderall coupons, savings cards, and discounts may all help lower costs.
Do I Need an Adderall Prescription?
An evaluation from a qualified medical provider can determine if an Adderall prescription should be part of your treatment plan for ADHD. They will assess your physical and mental health history to determine whether Adderall is the best option for reducing your ADHD symptoms. Adderall is thought to work by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which are neurotransmitters used for attention processes and emotional regulation.1 Changes in these levels may help reduce ADHD symptoms for some people.
Below are signs you may benefit from an Adderall prescription:
In children and teens:
- Inability to stay focused on tasks
- Excess energy
- Struggling to follow directions
- Impulsive behavior and decision-making
- Inability to wait their turn
For adults:
- Sense of underachievement
- Trouble following through
- Chronic procrastination
- Frequent search for stimulation
- Intolerance for boredom
This is not a complete list of symptoms of ADHD, a condition Adderall is FDA-approved to treat. Discuss the potential risks and benefits of Adderall with your doctor.
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How to Get Prescribed Adderall Online & In Person
To get prescribed Adderall, you will first need an evaluation to determine whether it is a good fit for treating your symptoms of ADHD. If you are looking for in-person options, a good place to start is with your primary care provider, which may be a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant. If they determine it is needed, they can refer you to an ADHD specialist, such as a psychiatrist who can further evaluate whether to include Adderall as a part of your treatment plan.
To get prescribed Adderall online, you will also start by getting an evaluation from an online provider. It is important to find an online psychiatry provider who can and will prescribe controlled substances. Not all online platforms will prescribe stimulant medications like Adderall due to special regulations for controlled substances.
Since it can be difficult to find a provider to prescribe Adderall online, we have thoroughly reviewed online platforms like Circle Medical and ADHD Online, two online platform that treats ADHD and prescribe stimulants like Adderall. In using the services ourselves, we have found them each to be a good place to get started with an evaluation. If your provider feels Adderall is a good fit for your symptoms, they may prescribe you Adderall online.
What Can I Expect When Getting an Adderall Prescription?
The process of getting diagnosed and potentially prescribed Adderall online or in person may vary for people of different ages. A provider doing an evaluation will communicate with all healthcare providers in a person’s life. Here’s what you can expect:
For adults:
- Diagnosis: Your provider will collect a history of past functioning from others who know you well in various settings. This may include coworkers, family members, or others you interact with regularly. This is important because you may not show symptoms the same way in all settings.
- Treatment plan: Your provider will develop a treatment plan to help you manage your ADHD symptoms. They may recommend behavioral therapy, medication such as Adderall, or both.
- Prescription: If Adderall is determined to be a good fit for you, your provider will review the risks, benefits, and how to take the medication. They will give you a prescription for a 30-day supply, which you may fill in person at a local pharmacy or through an online psychiatry platform.
- Monthly check-ins: At first, your prescriber will meet with you monthly to check on your symptoms and adjust your Adderall dosage. Depending on how the medication works for you, your prescriber may change your check-in visits to once every 3 months.
For children and teens:
- Diagnosis: The provider will talk with teachers and school staff about how the child or teen functions in the classroom. A provider will also compare your child or teen’s behaviors to what is expected for their age.
- Treatment plan: The provider will develop an ADHD treatment plan for your child or teen for home and school settings. This plan may include behavioral therapy, medication, or both.
- Prescription: If the provider recommends Adderall, they will review the risks, benefits, and how to take the medication. They will then provide a prescription for a 30-day supply, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Adderall cannot be prescribed to children under the age of 3. Your prescriber may recommend a different medication depending on many factors, including their age.
- Monthly check-ins: Monthly check-ins are required when starting Adderall. Once your child or teen has taken Adderall for several months, your prescriber may schedule your check-ins once every 3 months.
Online Psychiatry
Circle Medical – ADHD Diagnosis and Treatment Affordable and accessible ADHD evaluations and treatment, including possible controlled substances medication if clinically appropriate. Diagnosis and prescription over video. Insurance accepted. Same & next day appointments available. Visit Circle Medical
Plushcare There are many effective medications for ADHD, including Strattera, which a Plushcare doctor can prescribe. In as little as 15 minutes, you can speak with a board-certified doctor from PlushCare to receive ADHD treatment. Plushcare DOES NOT prescribe controlled substances. Visit Plushcare
Who Should Not Take Adderall?
Each person is different, and while Adderall is a commonly prescribed medication for ADHD, this medication is not the right treatment option for everyone. Adderall is safe and effective for those aged six and up, but there are exceptions to consider.
People who should take extra caution before using Adderall include:
- Children: Physicians usually recommend starting with behavior therapy before trying stimulant medication like Adderall for younger children. (FN2)
- Pregnant and breastfeeding parents: The impacts on pregnancy are unknown. Studies of Adderall on pregnant animals have had adverse effects on offspring, but experts have yet to conduct similar research on humans. Adderall is passed from mother to baby in breast milk, and taking Adderall while breastfeeding should be avoided. It is crucial to discuss treatment options with your doctor if you are planning to become pregnant or are already pregnant. (FN1)
- Those with other mental health conditions: Stimulants may worsen symptoms of other mental health conditions. Some medications prescribed as treatments may also interact with Adderall.
- Those with a history of substance abuse: Those with a history of substance use disorders may be at increased risk to misuse Adderall. A non-stimulant alternative may be recommended.
- Those with certain medical conditions: Stimulants such as Adderall may be unsafe for people with specific medical conditions, especially heart disease or high blood pressure.
Not all possible reactions may occur, and this is not a complete list of potential risks of taking Adderall. Discuss with your doctor to see if Adderall is right for you.
What Are Adderall Alternatives?
There are many Adderall alternatives available. Both stimulant and non-stimulant treatments can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Alternatives to Adderall include other stimulant medications, such as Ritalin, Concerta, and Vyvanse. There are also several non-stimulant medications for ADHD. Strattera, Qelbree, and Intuniv are all non-stimulant options that are FDA-approved to treat ADHD symptoms, and clonidine may be effective as an off-label treatment for ADHD. Off-label use means that a prescriber may use a medication as non-FDA-approved treatment because they believe it may benefit a patient.
Having non-stimulant treatment options is important for people who need or wish to avoid stimulant medications. Non-stimulant medications may also be easier for online psychiatrists to prescribe depending on your state, diagnosis, and other factors. If you are looking for an online provider that can prescribe Adderall alternatives, both Talkiatry and Brightside offer non-stimulant medication to treat ADHD for those it is a good fit for.
The generic version of Adderall may be prescribed as an alternative to the brand name for several reasons. It contains the same active ingredient as the brand name medication, amphetamine – dextroamphetamine mixed salts. The generic form also has the same treatment benefits as brand name Adderall and is less expensive.
Are There Over-the-Counter Adderall Options?
Currently, there are no FDA-approved over-the-counter medications to treat ADHD. Many over-the-counter and natural products claim to help with the treatment of adult ADHD. However, quality studies are limited and have yet to show whether such supplements improve ADHD symptoms. Some can also interact with other medications you may be taking. Check with reputable sources and your healthcare providers before taking any supplements.
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How Much Does Adderall Cost?
The cost of Adderall can vary based on several factors, including your location, the pharmacy you use, and whether you have insurance, as well as on the dosage and length of prescription (number of days) your doctor prescribes.
Adderall Prices
The cost of Adderall currently ranges from $325-$364 for a 30-day supply of 5 milligrams without insurance. Your Adderall prescription may cost much less with insurance depending on your plan and coverage. A similar prescription of the generic form of Adderall, amphetamine, dextroamphetamine mixed salts, costs $15-$31. The cost of Adderall will also vary based on the dosage and amount prescribed. Coupons for Adderall are often available and may reduce your out of pocket costs.
Note: Cash prices listed are derived from multiple sources. The prices listed are an estimate only and cannot be guaranteed. For exact prices, please contact the pharmacy.
Walmart
$346
Walgreens
$338
CVS / Target
$337
RiteAid
$325
Kroger
$337
Costco
$364
Hy-Vee
$344
Publix
$353
Albertsons
$334
Does Insurance Cover Adderall?
Depending on the company, your insurance plan may cover your Adderall prescription. It is important to consider that policies can change coverage at any time and some may only cover generics. Commercial insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE all have different requirements and policies for medication coverage. Contact your insurance provider directly to learn whether your prescription may be covered.
If your insurance does cover an Adderall prescription, Circle Medical is currently one of the only online platforms that will prescribe Adderall and accept insurance. They are a good online option for those looking for ADHD medication. Brightside does not prescribe controlled substances but can be an option if you are prescribed nonstimulant medication. Talkiatry may prescribe controlled substances in some cases. Both platforms accept insurance.
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Questions to Ask Your Provider
If you think getting an Adderall prescription may be helpful for treating your ADHD symptoms, one place to start is by talking to your primary healthcare provider. They know your health history and may be well-suited to prescribe medication, if needed. And if they think you’d be better served by a specialist, such as a psychiatrist, they can make a referral. Alternatively, if you do not have a primary healthcare provider, an online psychiatry provider specializing in ADHD is a good place to start.
To prepare for your first appointment, spend time collecting important information. Write down your main symptoms, how they affect your life, and what good symptom relief would look like. Describe your goals for treatment, discussing your interest and concerns about using medications.
Questions to ask your care team about being prescribed Adderall include:4
- What type of ADHD do I have, and will Adderall help?
- How long will it take for Adderall to start working?
- How will we track my progress?
- How often do I need appointments while taking Adderall?
- Is Adderall safe for me to take?
- Can I get my prescription refilled if I’m away from home?
- Could I become addicted to Adderall?
- Are there Adderall alternatives for me to consider if it doesn’t help or has too many side effects?
Prescriber’s Tips
Your prescriber will share important information about your Adderall prescription. They will explain how to take and store your medication, what to avoid when taking it, and what to do about side effects. Follow these tips for safe and effective use of Adderall.
- Take Adderall as prescribed, do not change your dose or stop taking it unless your prescriber tells you to. Taking too much Adderall may lead to overdose.
- Avoid operating heavy machinery or dangerous activities until you know how the medication affects you.
- Take your medication at the same time each day, typically in the morning. Doing so can help you remember to take it, making it as effective as possible.
- Tell your prescriber right away if you have any worsening mental health symptoms.
- Adderall may lower appetite and cause slowed growth in children. Talk with your child’s prescriber about any concerns with their growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Adderall?
Adderall is a schedule II controlled stimulant medication approved to treat ADHD symptoms.
How Does Adderall Work?
Adderall works by increasing levels of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.1 These increases bring the brain from a state of overstimulation to a normal state of stimulation.
Can You Get Adderall Prescription Refills Online?
Schedule II controlled substances such as Adderall cannot be refilled automatically. A new prescription with a prescriber visit is required each month. Online prescription access may be available depending on age, state laws, and insurance acceptance.
Are There Refill Limits for Adderall Prescriptions?
There are limits to prescriptions for controlled substances. While prescriptions cannot be refilled, a prescriber may provide multiple prescriptions at once for up to a 90-day supply.5
Can I Get Adderall Medication Delivered to My Home?
You may be able to get Adderall medication delivered to your home, but it can vary widely depending on the state you live in. All online psychiatry platforms will deliver prescriptions to a local pharmacy.
Can You Get Adderall From a Walk-in Clinic?
This is not likely due to Adderall being a controlled substance. If you have a prescription already, contact your primary provider or local pharmacy for help. If you do not have a prescription, you will need a full ADHD evaluation first. An urgent care or walk-in clinic is not equipped to provide this type of evaluation.6
How Long Is an Adderall Prescription Good For?
Adderall prescriptions may be available for 1-3 months before requiring a prescriber visit and new prescription.
Can You Get an Adderall Prescription Refilled Early?
Controlled substances like Adderall cannot be refilled automatically. Your prescriber may provide multiple prescriptions up to a 90-day supply.5 Talk to your prescriber if you may have trouble scheduling an appointment before your supply runs out.
How Much Does Adderall Cost Without Insurance?
The cash cost of brand name Adderall can range from $317-$364 for a 30-day supply of the smallest dosage available.
How Can I Get Adderall Prescribed Without Insurance?
Online ADHD platforms like Done ADHD and ADHD Online provide ADHD evaluations and Adderall prescriptions and do not accept insurance. Available services depend on a person’s age, state, and other factors.
What Are the Effects of Misusing Adderall?
Signs of Adderall misuse may include having high energy, insomnia, changes in appetite, poor performance at school or work, running out of the medication early, and increased irritability.
Can You Get Prescribed Adderall Without ADHD?
Yes, prescribers may use Adderall to treat other conditions off-label, such as depression, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorder. Off-label means that a prescriber may use a medication as non-FDA-approved treatment because they believe it may benefit a patient.
Can You Get Adderall Without a Prescription?
No, Adderall is only available with a prescription.
Is There a Generic Version of Adderall?
Yes, a generic version of Adderall is available and has the active ingredient dextroamphetamine – amphetamine mixed salts.
How Does Desoxyn Compare to Adderall as an Alternative?
Both Desoxyn and Adderall are stimulant medications prescribed to treat ADHD. Because Desoxyn is a more potent stimulant, it is often used when other ADHD medications have not been helpful enough.
Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.
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DailyMed – ADDERALL- dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine aspartate, dextroamphetamine sulfate, and amphetamine sulfate tablet. (May 29, 2024). DailyMed.nim.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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What Is ADHD? (2021). CDC.gov. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/facts.html
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Adderall Cost. (n.d.). GoodRx.com. Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/adderall
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MedlinePlus. (2019). Dextroamphetamine and Amphetamine. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601234.html
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Controlled Substances Listed in Schedule II. (May 14, 2024). ECFR.gov. Retrieved from https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-II/
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Spencer, Aiden. (May 19, 2016). What Type of Medication Can an Urgent Care Doctor Prescribe? AJMC.com. Retrieved from https://www.ajmc.com/view/what-type-of-medication-can-an-urgent-care-doctor-prescribe
We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Updated cost information in Key takeaways for getting prescribed Adderall online and FAQ in “How Much Does Adderall Cost Without Insurance?” section. Updated prescribing information resource in source list.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Added “Key Takeaways” page feature.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Updated formatting and added new article content including drug overview summary block, cost table, and alternatives comparison slider. Also updated “Questions to Ask Your Provider” and “Prescriber Tips” page features.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Added new sections titled “How Much Does Adderall Cost?”, “What Can I Expect When Getting an Adderall Prescription?”, “Prescriber’s Tips”, “FAQs”, “Does Insurance Cover Adderall?”. Revised sections titled “Do I Need a Adderall Prescription?”, “How to Get Adderall Prescribed”, “Who Shouldn’t Be Prescribed Adderall”, What Are Adderall Alternatives?”, “Are There Over-the-Counter Adderall Options?”, “Questions to Ask Your Health Team About How to Get Adderall”, Reviewed and added relevant sources. Edited for readability and clarity.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Edited for readability and clarity. Reviewed and added relevant resources.
Author: Zachary Reale, PharmD
Reviewer: Dena Westphalen, PharmD
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Talkspace – accepts many insurance plans including Optum, Cigna, Aetna, and Anthem. Talkspace also accepts Medicare in some states. The average copay is $15, but many people pay $0. Talkspace does not prescribe controlled substances. Visit Talkspace
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Best Online Psychiatry Services
Online psychiatry, sometimes called telepsychiatry, platforms offer medication management by phone, video, or secure messaging for a variety of mental health conditions. In some cases, online psychiatry may be more affordable than seeing an in-person provider. Mental health treatment has expanded to include many online psychiatry and therapy services. With so many choices, it can feel overwhelming to find the one that is right for you.
