231 Acquiring ADHD Medication: Why Is This Process SO DANG HARD?!
Oct 3, 2023
42:37
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The podcast discusses the challenges of acquiring ADHD medication, including shortages, obstacles, and frustrations. It also introduces a nutrition supplement as an alternative solution. The hosts call for better access to medication and advocate for action.
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Quick takeaways
The episode highlights the barriers and challenges that individuals with ADHD face when trying to acquire their prescribed medication, including prior authorizations, insurance issues, and pharmacies not having the medication in stock.
The podcast emphasizes the need for better training and understanding among medical professionals to meet the medication needs of individuals with ADHD, addressing both overprescription and the lack of formal education and accurate diagnosis.
Deep dives
The Frustrations of Acquiring ADHD Medication
The podcast episode discusses the difficulties and frustrations that individuals with ADHD face when trying to acquire the medication they are prescribed. The host shares her own personal experience and highlights the barriers and challenges that people encounter in accessing their prescribed ADHD medication. She expresses her frustration with the complex process, including prior authorizations, insurance issues, and pharmacies not having the medication in stock. The host emphasizes the discrimination and the lack of understanding surrounding ADHD medication and the detrimental impact it has on individuals' functioning and well-being.
Overprescription and Lack of Training
The episode addresses the issue of overprescription of ADHD medication and the lack of formal training among medical providers. The host emphasizes the need for education and accurate diagnosis in prescribing medication. She points out the increase in demand for ADHD medication, especially during the pandemic, and highlights the underserved population of individuals with ADHD who remain without proper treatment. The host calls for better training and understanding among medical professionals to meet the medication needs of those with ADHD.
Shortage of ADHD Medication
The podcast episode discusses the shortage of ADHD medication, particularly stimulant medication like Adderall. The host shares stories from listeners who have experienced the challenges of trying to acquire their prescribed medication, including calling numerous pharmacies, driving long distances, and facing discrimination. The episode highlights the lack of understanding and urgency from regulatory bodies, such as the FDA and DEA, in addressing the medication shortage. The host calls for changes to ensure individuals with ADHD have consistent access to their prescribed medication.
Positive Developments and Conclusion
The episode concludes with some positive news regarding the FDA's approval of multiple generics for ADHD medication. However, the host acknowledges that this does not fully address the overall challenges and frustrations faced by individuals with ADHD. She expresses solidarity with her listeners and acknowledges the fatigue and low executive functioning that often accompanies the struggle to acquire medication. The host encourages listeners to continue advocating for better access to ADHD medication and expresses support and understanding for their experiences.
I’m going to be very honest. This episode is a dedicated “b**** fest” on how hard it is to get the medication prescribed for ADHD. If any of you adults out there have been through this, sometimes it’s therapeutic just to let out all the frustration and feel seen and heard and commiserated with, and that’s what this episode is for.
You all should know by now that I take ADHD medication, but you may not know that I have two kiddos who take medication for ADHD as well. We each are unique and need different things to help us function at our best, and thankfully we have had access to insurance and medical professionals to diagnose us and prescribe appropriate medication. But even with all this support, I have encountered more obstacles with getting one of our prescriptions filled than anyone should ever have to endure in a lifetime!
Unfortunately, I’m not the only one. In this episode, I discuss the various obstacles keeping many of us from receiving ADHD medication and how there seems to be nothing but finger-pointing and petty excuses offered instead of real solutions to solve these issues. I encourage you to read some of the articles I mention, listed below, use tools like GoodRX to get coupons when possible, and communicate early and often with your doctor and pharmacy. At this point in time, no one else is going to advocate for your needs more than you can. It may put all of our impaired executive functions to the test, but darn it, we’ve struggled for far too long to not get the support we need and deserve.
While it in no way can take the place of medication and adequate trauma-informed therapy, I want you to know that my group coaching program FOCUSED can be another source of support for those of you looking for additional tools to address your ADHD. We see you, we hear you and we validate you.