How Expats and Travelers in Mexico City Can Get ADHD Medication such as Vyvanse, Concerta and Adderall: Complete Guide

Medically reviewed byVadzim B. - PharmDon Oct 8 2024

Navigating ADHD Meds in Mexico: Adderall is not available in Mexico, Vyvanse is back-ordered alternatives such as Concerta, Ritalin and Modafinil are available.

Getting ADHD medication in Mexico City means knowing the local laws and healthcare options. Adderall is not available, and Vyvanse is back-ordered, you can get Concerta, Ritalin or Modafinil from licensed psychiatrists. This guide will help you understand how to get ADHD meds in Mexico, including legal steps and what you need for a prescription. Many visitors ask, "Can you get ADHD medication in Mexico?" The answer is yes, but with important regulations to follow.

Expats and travelers often find it hard because of Mexico’s strict rules on controlled substances. This article will show you how to get prescriptions, avoid customs problems, and find reliable ADHD medication in Mexico City. You will learn about safe options, the documents you need, and where to find support in Mexico City.

Key Takeaways

• Adderall isn't sold in Mexico, but Vyvanse, Ritalin, Concerta and other stimulants are legal with proper prescriptions.
• A Mexican doctor's diagnosis is needed to obtain ADHD medication Mexico prescriptions.
• Telemedicine services help expats consult specialists without traveling outside Mexico City.
• Bringing ADHD meds from the US requires a valid prescription and a doctor's letter.
• Pharmacies in Mexico City verify prescriptions to ensure compliance with drug control laws.
• Many patients ask "Can I buy Vyvanse in Mexico?" Vyvanse is temporarly back-ordered pending a distribution license approval by the health secretary.
• Unlike in the USA or Canada where doctors can give patients a refillable prescription for ADHD medications for 1 year, in Mexico the quantity is capped at a 60 day supply at a time per prescription dividable into a maximum of 2 boxes.

Get a prescription for ADHD in Mexico by booking an appointment with English-speaking Psychiatrists

ADHD Medication Overview

Living with ADHD in Mexico City as an expat or traveler comes with its own set of challenges. Cultural views on adhd treatment for expats often don't match what individuals need. Mexico's healthcare system focuses more on physical health than mental health, leaving many feeling ignored.

• Strict drug laws classify stimulants like Adderall as controlled substances, requiring a lot of paperwork.
• Language barriers can slow down getting a diagnosis and treatment, especially for those who don't speak Spanish well.
• Myths about buying adderall in mexico online are common, but buying from unlicensed sources is risky and illegal.

Vyvanse in Mexico

Many patients ask "Can I buy Vyvanse in Mexico?" Vyvanse is temporarly back-ordered pending a distribution license approval by the health secretary. The vyvanse name in Mexico is the same as in the US - it's marketed as Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine). How much does Vyvanse cost in Mexico? Vyvanse in Mexico cost typically ranges from 800-1200 pesos (approximately $40-60 USD) for a 30-day supply, which is often less expensive than in the United States.

Vyvanse uses lisdexamfetamine, which turns into dextroamphetamine in the body. It lasts 12–14 hours, longer than Adderall's 4–6 hours. Is Vyvanse legal in Mexico? Yes, it is legal, but only with a proper prescription from a licensed Mexican doctor.

Vyvanse Availability

Vyvanse left Mexico 5 years ago, last year a new company Lemery has submitted an application to Cofepris for the distribution of lisdexamfetamine, the active ingredient in Vyvanse (20,40, and 60mg). The application was approved, however the health registration procedures with "Secretaria de Salud" are still pending. The process needs to complete for the distribution in pharmacies to be authorized. Updated July 24 2025

Fake Vyvanse Alert

COFEPRIS has issued a health alert warning of the risk of acquiring counterfeit medications or medications that present various irregularities that call into question the quality and efficacy of Vyvanse. The following batches should not be consumed, and if consumed, please report any adverse reactions or discomfort:

Takeda indicates that this product has not been marketed in Mexico since January 2021 in any doses (30 mg, 50 mg, or 70 mg), thus confirming that the products are counterfeit.

Concerta Availability

Concerta in Mexico is widely prescribed and available at most major pharmacies with a valid prescription. Concerta is an extended-release methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin LA (Extended release methylphenidate). It has a steady effect for 12 hours, unlike Adderall's immediate release.

Regular Ritalin is a short-acting methylphenidate. Generic versions like Ritalin are widely available but need more frequent doses. Pharmacies such as Farmacia San Pablo and Farmacia Guadalajara usually carry a larger inventory and wider variety of medications.

ADHD Medication Laws and Regulations in Mexico

Mexico has strict adhd medication laws mexico for ADHD drugs like Vyvanse and Ritalin. These rules help ensure patients get the right treatment while controlling drug use. Knowing these laws is crucial for safe treatment in Mexico. A common question is "Is Vyvanse legal in Mexico?" Yes, it is legal, but only with a proper prescription from a licensed Mexican doctor.

Classification of ADHD Medications in Mexico

ADHD drugs are controlled substances in Mexico. Drugs like Vyvanse and Ritalin are Schedule II substances. This means they must follow strict rules.

Legal Differences Between Mexico and the US

1. Scheduling: ADHD Medications are Schedule II in both countries, but Mexico has stricter refill limits.
2. Telemedicine: Mexico allows virtual consultations for prescriptions, but Schedule II substances such as ADHD medications require a physical prescription and a doctors signature in ink.
3. Travel rules: When taking ADHD meds across borders, you need a prescription copy and proof of medical need to avoid customs issues.

Adderall Alternatives

Adderall is not approved for sale in Mexico. But, there are local ADHD treatment options available such as Vyvanse, Concerta and Ritalin. These drugs work in similar ways but have different release times. Concerta in Mexico is widely prescribed and available at most major pharmacies with a valid prescription.

Here are some key differences:

• vyvanse vs adderall mexico: Vyvanse uses lisdexamfetamine, which turns into dextroamphetamine in the body. It lasts 12–14 hours, longer than Adderall's 4–6 hours. The vyvanse name in Mexico is the same as in the US - it's marketed as Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine).
• concerta vs adderall mexico: Concerta is an extended-release methylphenidate. It is known as Ritalin LA (Extended release methylphenidate) It has a steady effect for 12 hours, unlike Adderall's immediate release.
• Regular Ritalin is a short-acting methylphenidate. Generic versions like Ritalin are widely available but need more frequent doses.

Non-stimulant options like Strattera (atomoxetine) offer different ways to manage symptoms. They work on norepinephrine and alpha-2 receptors, not dopamine.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

How much does Vyvanse cost in Mexico? Vyvanse in Mexico cost typically ranges from 800-1200 pesos (approximately $40-60 USD) for a 30-day supply, which is often less expensive than in the United States. Prices may vary between pharmacies, so it's worth checking multiple locations. Some private insurance plans in Mexico may provide partial coverage for ADHD medications, further reducing out-of-pocket expenses.

Generic versions of stimulants are often cheaper than brand-name drugs. Patients should talk to doctors about adjusting doses since equivalencies differ. Always check that prescriptions follow Mexico's controlled substance rules to avoid legal trouble.

Cost Calculator

Finding English-Speaking Psychiatrists

Expats and travelers looking for adhd-friendly doctors in cdmx need to know where to start. Look for clinics that welcome international patients and focus on adhd treatment for expats. Here's how to find reliable doctors and make your search easier.

Here is a list of English-speaking psychiatrists in Mexico City that you can book online and who can help you with a prescription for ADHD.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

Bring your medical records to speed up the process. Doctors might adjust your diagnosis to fit Mexican standards. Always ask about prescription rules before your visit.

Getting a Prescription

ADHD medications are classified as psychotropic drugs (Fracción II) in Mexico and is tightly regulated. To obtain it in Mexico City, you need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare professional that meets specific legal requirements. Below is a summary of the prescription requirements and the process for acquiring ADHD medications legally.

Prescription Requirements Summary

Process for Obtaining Adderall

1. Consult a Licensed Professional: Visit a doctor in Mexico City, such as a psychiatrist, who is authorized to prescribe psychotropic medications. Ensure they provide a prescription meeting all the above requirements.
2. Visit a Pharmacy: Take the prescription to a pharmacy authorized to dispense psychotropic drugs. Present your official ID (e.g., passport or Mexican voter ID).
3. Pharmacy Verification: The pharmacy will verify the prescription and your ID, then dispense up to two units of Adderall as prescribed.
4. Prescription Retention: The pharmacy will keep the original prescription after filling it.

Where to Fill ADHD Prescriptions in Mexico City

Pharmacies such as Farmacia San Pablo and Farmacia Guadalajara usually carry a larger inventory and wider variety of medications. Other pharmacies such as Benavidas or Farmacia del Ahorro might also carry ADHD medications. For those asking "Can I buy Vyvanse in Mexico?" or looking for Concerta in Mexico, these larger pharmacy chains are your best option, as smaller pharmacies may not stock these specialized medications.

Pharmacy Finder

Bringing ADHD Medication from the United States

Travelers going to Mexico with ADHD meds like Adderall must know the customs rules. Following these rules helps avoid delays or legal trouble. Here are the main steps to stay on the right side of the law.

Customs Regulations for Controlled Substances

Mexico lets you bring ADHD meds for personal use, but you need proof of prescription. Adderall and similar drugs are Schedule II under Secretaría de Salud rules.

“All controlled substances must be declared at border crossings,” states the Mexico Customs website.

Carrying more than a 90-day supply can lead to seizure or fines.

Required Documentation

• Original prescription bottles with pharmacy labels
• A doctor’s letter explaining medical necessity
• Translation of prescriptions if not in Spanish

Quantity Limits and Travel Tips

The allowed supply of ADHD medication is 90 days when coming into Mexico

Keep medications in your carry-on. For stays over 90 days, get refills from Mexican doctors

Avoiding Scams and Ensuring Medication Safety

When looking for adderall in mexico or ADHD treatments, beware of counterfeit meds and fake sellers. Online scams and fake pharmacies often target expats. They offer ritalin mexico or modafinil mexico adhd at very low prices. Here's how to stay safe:

• Verify pharmacies via Mexico’s Secretaría de Salud registry before purchasing.
• Reject unsolicited calls or emails offering adderall in mexico without a prescription—it’s illegal.
• Check for holographic seals on ritalin mexico packaging and batch numbers matching your prescription.

Scammers might say modafinil mexico adhd is a "legal alternative" to Adderall. But, only use Modafinil with a doctor's advice. Avoid buying from social media or street vendors. Fake pills can be dangerous.