We have three important updates regarding ADHD medications. Please read carefully, as some of these may affect your current prescription.
Is there a Meflynate XL 60mg Shortage? – What You Need to Know
We would like to make patients aware that there is currently a shortage of Meflynate XL 60mg.
If you are affected, alternative options are available:
- Switch to Medikinet XL 60mg – this has the same release profile as Meflynate XL but is a different brand.
- Continue with Meflynate XL at an adjusted dose – either 40mg plus 20mg capsules, or two 30mg capsules, depending on availability and what is appropriate for your prescription.
Our Prescription Team will be actively contacting all patients currently prescribed Meflynate XL 60mg to explain these options and help arrange the most suitable alternative. If you have any concerns in the meantime, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Intuniv (Guanfacine Hydrochloride MR) – Patent Update
We wanted to provide an update regarding Intuniv (Guanfacine Hydrochloride modified release). This medication is now considered off patent, meaning other manufacturers can produce their own equivalent versions.
In Europe, a generic/hybrid version of guanfacine prolonged-release called Paxneury has been authorised, with Intuniv named as the reference medicine. UK medicines listings now also show non-Intuniv guanfacine prolonged-release products alongside Intuniv.
What does this mean for patients?
When a medicine’s patent expires, other companies can enter the market with equivalent products. This increased competition typically leads to prices reducing over time — though not always immediately. Price reductions depend on a number of factors, including how many manufacturers enter the market, stock availability, wholesaler pricing, and how quickly competition becomes established.
At present, we have not yet seen consistent feedback from pharmacies that guanfacine MR is cheaper. However, the recent launch of Paxneury in Europe supports the expectation that competition may increase over time. We will continue to monitor this and keep patients informed.
Tuzulby – A New ADHD Medication Option for Children
We are pleased to share information about a new medication option for children and young people aged 6 to under 18 with ADHD: Tuzulby.
What is Tuzulby?
Tuzulby is a chewable prolonged-release methylphenidate tablet, designed to start working fairly quickly and continue working for around 8 hours throughout the day. It may be particularly helpful for children who find it difficult to swallow capsules or tablets.
Tuzulby contains two components:
- 30% immediate-release methylphenidate – helps the medication start working more quickly
- 70% prolonged-release methylphenidate – helps the medication last longer through the day
Dosing and suitability
For most children starting Tuzulby, the usual starting dose is 20mg once daily in the morning, adjusted gradually depending on response and tolerability. Dosing is always tailored to the individual child.
Tuzulby may also be suitable for some children already taking immediate-release methylphenidate twice daily, as it can sometimes be used as a once-daily alternative.
As with all ADHD medications, children taking Tuzulby would still need regular monitoring. If your child currently struggles with their medication due to its formulation, Tuzulby may be something we can consider and discuss with you.
