Mednet Logo

How do you address a patient who may be getting Adderall from another non-prescribed source while you're treating them with Adderall for ADHD?

Can very high concentrations of amphetamine on drug tests be revealing of improper use? Is confirmatory testing ever useful for distinguishing Adderall obtained from the streets?
4 Answers
Mednet Member
Mednet MemberInvited Expert
Psychiatry · Private Practice
Answered on

If I find out a patient is abusing/misusing Adderall from another source, even having it prescribed by another licensed provider at the same time they are having it prescribed by me, I immediately stop prescribing any dea controlled medication (I once had a patient tell me “I’m selling the meds from...

Join for free or sign in to see the full answer

Mednet Member
Mednet Member
Psychiatry · Private Practice
Answered on

I believe every physician treating adults with ADHD must approach their practice through an addiction-informed lens. I make this clear at the first visit, emphasizing that our therapeutic relationship is built on absolute transparency and essential safety parameters. When a patient demonstrates beha...

Join for free or sign in to see the full answer

Mednet Member
Mednet Member
Psychiatry · Private Pratice
Answered on

I agree with the above-noted responses but would make three additional comments:

  1. I would ask (require) the patient to sign a release allowing me to communicate with his other physicians, and if he/she agrees, write to the other prescribing physician and inform them of the situation.
  2. I would conside...

Join for free or sign in to see the full answer

Mednet Member
Mednet Member
Psychiatry · RK Psychiatry Associates, LLC
Answered on

I check the PMP every time I prescribe a stimulant. If I saw a patient receiving Adderall from another source, my concern would go up quickly. I would not assume bad intent, but I would want to understand what they thought they were doing and why. Sometimes there is a reasonable explanation, like an...

Join for free or sign in to see the full answer