The CDC has issued a warning about the risks to ADHD patients after a major disruption in the online prescription of Adderall and other stimulants. This follows the indictment of executives from Done Global, an online telehealth platform, on charges of healthcare fraud and improper Adderall distribution. The disruption may affect up to 50,000 patients, worsening the existing shortage of ADHD medications.
Ruthia He, founder and CEO of Done Global, and David Brody, MD, the clinical president, are accused of generating over $100 million by providing easy access to ADHD stimulants through a subscription-based telehealth service. The scheme allegedly exploited telemedicine and social media advertisements, resulting in the prescription of over 40 million pills.
With the indictment, patients reliant on Done Global may struggle to obtain their medications and are advised to seek new healthcare providers. The CDC emphasized the dangers of turning to unregulated sources for ADHD medication, noting the prevalence of counterfeit drugs that often contain dangerous substances like fentanyl. A DEA report highlighted that 70% of illegal pills contain lethal doses of fentanyl.
Untreated ADHD can lead to severe consequences, including social and emotional issues, higher risk of substance use disorders, accidental injuries, and suicide. The CDC urges healthcare providers to support affected patients by offering mental health resources and information on the dangers of counterfeit medications.
For those impacted, it’s critical to consult licensed clinicians and pharmacies to avoid these risks and ensure proper treatment for ADHD