Update on ADHD medication
What is happening with the supply issues affecting ADHD medication?
As you may know there has been a shortage of ADHD medications, particularly from the end of September 2023, and this is still ongoing. This has been caused by a combination of manufacturing issues and an increase in global demand. This has meant:
- We could not start anyone on ADHD medication
- Some people already on ADHD medication had their treatment affected
Medication shortages are showing some improvement although there are still a number of medication types and strengths affected by the shortages. For some medication, there may continue to be supply issues until April. We know this has been a difficult time for you.
See our previous information about the shortages
What does this mean for those waiting to start ADHD medication?
We’re now able to start offering medication appointments again and will be in touch as soon as we can offer you an appointment. We’ll be working in date order as this is the fairest way. Please be patient – we’re doing everything we can to offer as many appointments as we can. Because all services were asked not to start anyone on ADHD medication from the end of September 2023, it will take us a while to work through everybody who is waiting.
What does this mean for those already on ADHD medication whose treatment has been affected by shortages?
This will depend on what the type and the strength of medication that you have been prescribed.
Intunviv/Guanfacine: it is very important that you do not make any changes to the current dose unless this has specifically been advised by your ADHD clinician. This is because there are potentially serious risks to you if changes to this medication are not made in the correct way. Please contact your ADHD clinician for advice if they have not already been in touch with you.
For other ADHD medications, please follow the guidance of your GP or contact them if you have any concerns. Please request repeat medication at least 2 weeks before your current prescription runs out. You may want to telephone pharmacies to check what they have available as supply of medications can vary from pharmacy to pharmacy.
Information correct as of 8 February 2024