Learn about disruptions to the supply of ADHD medicines and how to get your prescription.
Contents
What is the issue?
There have been supply disruptions for ADHD medicines since autumn 2023. People who have prescriptions for ADHD medicines have had difficulty getting some of these medicines.
The disruptions affecting many of these medicines are now resolved. However, we are still monitoring disruptions to the supply of medicines which contain methylphenidate, including Xenidate XL and Xaggitin XL prolonged release tablets.
Why is there a shortage?
The supply disruption is affecting all parts of the UK and is caused by a combination of manufacturing issues and an increase in global demand.
When is the shortage expected to resolve?
The supply disruptions which affected the following are now resolved:
- lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse) capsules
- all brands of atomoxetine capsules
- methylphenidate standard release tablets
- methylphenidate modified-release capsules
There are continuing disruptions to some brands of methylphenidate modified release tablets. These include all strengths of Xenidate XL and Xaggitin XL prolonged release tablets. We expect these to be resolved by the end of November 2024.
When supply disruptions are resolved it can take a little time for local availability to stabilise. Wholesalers and community pharmacies need to receive the stock. Also, those pharmacies need to dispense any prescriptions held back during the period in which supplies were limited.
What is being done to resolve the shortage?
It is the responsibility of the UK Government to maintain the continuity of supply of medicines to the UK. We want to minimise the effect of any disruption to supply for most people with prescriptions to these medicines. To do this, we are working with the:
- UK Government
- Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)
- health boards
- GPs
- community pharmacies
We are taking a range of actions to mitigate the impact of supply disruptions to ADHD medicines. This includes providing prescribers with clinical advice on alternative treatment options. This summarises the differences between different ADHD medicines and between brands of medicines which contain the same active ingredient.
The UK Government has also imposed a ban on the export or hoarding of ADHD medicines by wholesalers.
What should I do if I have difficulty getting my prescription dispensed?
In the first instance you should try different pharmacies.
Some larger pharmacy chains may also provide online stock checkers. This allows you to search for pharmacies in your area that may have stock.
In all cases it is best to telephone the pharmacy before visiting. Information about contacting pharmacies in your area can be accessed at NHS 111 Wales.
If you are still unable to obtain a supply after trying different pharmacies, you may need to speak to your specialist or GP about alternative medicines or steps you can take to help manage any symptoms.