ADHD medications

The Source Episode 4 explores New Jersey’s Pinelands fire towers used for wildfire detection, highlights the annual 1,100 wildfires, and covers stories on ADHD medication shortages, the British Army in Philadelphia in 1778, traditional dance’s impact on immigrant children, and a Yiddish renaissance in Philly. Contributors include WHYY News staff members Susan Phillips, Alan Yu, Peter Crimmins, Emily Neil, Emma Lee, and host Kenny Cooper.

Philadelphia patients are struggling to obtain ADHD medications due to a years-long shortage, leading to difficulties in managing symptoms and increased risks of seeking alternatives like cigarettes or street drugs. Madison Blank, an affected patient, spent weeks without medication and had to try multiple prescriptions before finding a working alternative. Dr. Chris Pagnani, a psychiatrist, notes the shortage has persisted for 15 years with shifting medication availability.