ADHD Medications: Comparing Costs and Ways to Save
ADHD medications include stimulant and non-stimulant options. Many stimulants are controlled substances, which adds dispensing and transfer rules, and availability can be affected by periodic shortages. On cost, many have generic versions that are cheaper than the brand.
Comparing cash and discount prices, asking about generics, and confirming stock before you go are the practical steps here. Because these are often controlled, some pharmacies limit transfers, so plan ahead. Each medication below links to a page with current pricing.
ADHD medications (11)
Each medication links to its own page with live cash and discount prices. Prices vary by pharmacy, location, quantity, and eligibility.
- VyvanseSave 79%
Lisdexamfetamine · 50 mg
from $82.00
- Adderall XRSave 85%
Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine · 20 mg
from $42.00
- ConcertaSave 78%
Methylphenidate ER · 36 mg
from $68.00
- Adderall XRSave 100%
Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine · 20 mg
Live prices on detail page
- AdderallSave 85%
Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine · 20 mg
from $32.00
- AdderallSave 86%
Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine · 10 mg
from $28.00
- RitalinSave 90%
Methylphenidate · 10 mg
from $18.40
- Intuniv
Guanfacine (extended-release) · 1 mg
Live prices on detail page
- Intuniv
Guanfacine (extended-release) · 2 mg
Live prices on detail page
- Intuniv
Guanfacine (extended-release) · 3 mg
Live prices on detail page
- Intuniv
Guanfacine (extended-release) · 4 mg
Live prices on detail page
Frequently asked questions
Why is it sometimes hard to fill an ADHD medication?
Many ADHD stimulants are controlled substances subject to supply quotas and periodic shortages, so a specific drug or dose may be temporarily unavailable at a given pharmacy. Calling ahead to confirm stock, and comparing prices while you're at it, can save a wasted trip.
Why do prices for the same medication vary so much between pharmacies?
Cash prices are set by each pharmacy, not by a single national list, so the same drug and quantity can cost very different amounts across the street from each other. Discount-card prices, manufacturer arrangements, and a pharmacy's own contracts all move the final number. Comparing a few pharmacies before you fill is the simplest way to avoid overpaying.
Could a generic version lower my cost?
When an FDA-approved generic exists, it usually costs far less than the brand while containing the same active ingredient. Whether a generic is appropriate for you is a clinical decision — ask your doctor or pharmacist. This page is about cost comparison only, not which medication you should take.
Related savings guides
- Drug Shortages and Prices: What to Do When Your Med Is Short
Learn how the FDA tracks drug shortages, why shortages can raise prices, and practical steps to take when your pharmacy is out of your medication.
- Generic vs Brand-Name Medications: Cost Differences Explained
How generic and brand-name medications differ in cost and FDA approval, with data on typical savings and what to ask your pharmacist.
- How to Transfer a Prescription to a Cheaper Pharmacy
Step-by-step guide to transferring a prescription to a lower-cost pharmacy, including rules for controlled substances and what information you'll need.
This page is for cost and savings education only. It is not medical advice and makes no claims about which medication is right for you or how well any drug works. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your specific medications and coverage. Prices vary by pharmacy, location, quantity, and eligibility.
Looking for a different category? Browse all medication categories.