2026 DEA Rules for Telehealth Controlled Substances
The regulatory landscape for online ADHD treatment changed significantly in 2025–2026. After pandemic-era flexibilities expired, the DEA finalized rules that affect how telehealth platforms can prescribe Schedule II stimulants like Adderall, Vyvanse, and Concerta:
- New Schedule II prescriptions now require at least one documented in-person evaluation — either through the prescribing provider, a DEA-registered telehealth clinic with in-person exam capability, or a referring provider who has conducted an in-person assessment.
- Existing patients who have an established relationship (at least one prior in-person visit) can continue receiving Schedule II refills via telehealth without additional in-person visits.
- Non-stimulant medications (Strattera, Qelbree, Wellbutrin) have no in-person requirement and can be prescribed entirely via telehealth.
- State-level variation: Some states (California, New York, Florida) have additional telehealth prescribing restrictions. Check your state's medical board for specifics.
This means the "fully remote" model for new stimulant prescriptions has effectively ended for most patients. However, many platforms have adapted by partnering with local clinics or offering hybrid models.
Platform Comparison Table
| Platform | Monthly Cost | Prescribes Stimulants? | Insurance Accepted? | In-Person Requirement | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Done | $199/month | Yes | No (cash-pay only) | Yes (partner clinics for new Rx) | Fast evaluation (often same-week), 24/7 messaging |
| Cerebral | $85–$285/month | Yes | Yes (most major plans) | Yes (partner clinics or referral) | Therapy + medication management, comprehensive care model |
| Talkiatry | Insurance copay ($20–$60) | Yes | Yes (in-network with major insurers) | Yes (video visits accepted as in-person by some insurers) | Board-certified psychiatrists, insurance-based pricing |
| ADHD Online | $149 (assessment) + $199/month (treatment) | Yes | No (some HSA/FSA) | Yes (partner clinics for new Rx) | Comprehensive ADHD assessment tool, diagnosis-focused |
| Klarity | $149/month | Yes | Some plans | Varies by state | Affordable, quick matching with providers |
Done: Fastest Access, Highest Scrutiny
Done made headlines for offering rapid ADHD evaluations — sometimes within 24–48 hours of sign-up. While this speed is appealing, the platform has faced scrutiny from the DOJ and DEA over prescribing practices, leading to leadership changes and tighter clinical protocols.
Best for: Patients who want quick initial access and are comfortable with cash-pay pricing. Done now requires a documented in-person visit for new stimulant prescriptions, typically facilitated through a network of partner clinics. Follow-up appointments remain fully virtual.
Cost: $199/month for medication management (medication cost separate). No insurance accepted.
Cerebral: Most Comprehensive Care
Cerebral offers an integrated care model that combines medication management with therapy (CBT, coaching). They accept most major insurance plans, making them one of the more affordable options for insured patients. Their platform includes progress tracking tools and care coordination features.
Best for: Patients who want both medication and therapy in one platform, and those with insurance coverage. Cerebral's combined approach is especially valuable for adults with ADHD and comorbid anxiety or depression.
Cost: $85/month (medication only) to $285/month (medication + therapy). Often $0–$30 with insurance.
Talkiatry: Insurance-First, Board-Certified Psychiatrists
Talkiatry stands out as the only major ADHD telehealth platform that operates primarily through insurance. All providers are board-certified psychiatrists (not nurse practitioners or physician assistants), which some patients prefer for controlled substance prescribing. They accept most major insurance plans as in-network providers.
Best for: Patients who want a board-certified psychiatrist, prefer insurance-based pricing, and are comfortable with a potentially longer wait for initial appointment (2–4 weeks). Talkiatry also provides some in-person appointment options in select markets.
Cost: Standard insurance copay ($20–$60 per visit). No membership fee.
ADHD Online: Assessment-Focused
ADHD Online is unique in that their primary offering is a comprehensive, clinically validated ADHD assessment tool. The assessment takes approximately 1.5 hours and produces a detailed report that can be shared with any provider. Treatment services (medication management) are available as an add-on.
Best for: Patients seeking a formal ADHD diagnosis (or confirmation of diagnosis) who may then take the results to their own PCP or psychiatrist. The assessment is also useful for adults who suspect ADHD but haven't been formally evaluated.
Cost: $149 for assessment, $199/month for treatment. Some HSA/FSA accounts accepted.
Klarity: Budget-Friendly Option
Klarity positions itself as an affordable telehealth platform that matches patients with licensed providers for ADHD, anxiety, and depression treatment. Their pricing is straightforward, and the onboarding process is quick. In-person requirements for stimulants vary by state and provider.
Best for: Budget-conscious patients who want simple, no-frills ADHD treatment. Klarity is a good option for patients in states where telehealth prescribing of stimulants remains permissive, or for those seeking non-stimulant treatment (which has no in-person requirement).
Cost: $149/month. Some insurance plans accepted.
How to Choose the Right Platform
- Have insurance? Talkiatry or Cerebral will likely be the most affordable.
- Want therapy too? Cerebral offers integrated therapy + medication management.
- Need a diagnosis first? ADHD Online's assessment tool is the gold standard for online evaluation.
- Budget is the priority? Klarity is the most affordable cash-pay option.
- Want a psychiatrist (not NP/PA)? Talkiatry exclusively uses board-certified psychiatrists.
- Prefer non-stimulant treatment? All platforms can prescribe Strattera and Qelbree via telehealth with no in-person requirement.
Red Flags to Watch For
Not all online ADHD platforms are created equal. Be cautious of any platform that:
- Guarantees a stimulant prescription before evaluation
- Offers "instant" prescriptions without a clinical assessment
- Does not ask about your medical history, cardiac risk factors, or substance use
- Uses unlicensed or out-of-state providers without proper credentials
- Has no mechanism for the in-person evaluation now required for new Schedule II prescriptions
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting or changing ADHD treatment. Telehealth regulations vary by state.