Adderall shortage affecting pharmacies in the Triangle

A national shortage for a drug needed for ADHD treatment is now affecting pharmacies in the Triangle.

Experts say the country is going through a shortage of the drug Adderall due to ongoing manufacturing delays and a huge jump in demand.

Adderrall is a drug that helps with concentration, stress and multitasking.

Brent Talley, the owner of Hayes Barton Pharmacy in Raleigh, said many people depend on the drug, which is now becoming harder to find.

"We receive multiple calls every single day asking if we have this product or that product," Talley said. "We just have to tell them we're in the same boat. We don't have it."

Due to the shortages, pharmacies like Hayes Barton are sending customers back to the doctors for alternatives, such as Concerta, Vyvanse or Ritalin.

"Your options really are to call your doctor," Talley said. "See if they can switch you or call around and see who might have it that’s a hard task to do right now.”

The other option would be to go with a brand name Adderall prescription, but those typically are more expensive and less likely to be covered by insurance.

Talley believes the shortage will be resolved, but says drug makers need to meet the higher demand.

"I think every pharmacy will end up getting some but it's not the supply they need ot meet the demand currently," Talley said. "We really don't know when the problems will be fixed base on what we're told."

The earliest pharmacies could see improvements would be in March.