Update 15.03.24
Shortage Methylphenidate Hydrochloride MR (2024)
We have been informed that the current Methylphenidate Hydrochloride MR (the 12-hour Tablets) in all strengths are in very limited supply or currently unavailable
Examples of these are:
- Matoride
- Concerta XL
- Xaggitin XL
- Xenidate XL
- Delmosart
- Affenid
Again, disappointingly there appears to have been no warning about this in advance of the shortages, and also no communication from the relevant drug companies.
As you are aware multiple drug companies produce Methylphenidate Hydrochloride MR and so we are unsure of the exact reasons for this; however, as an alternative, there is current availability of Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Capsules, which are an 8 hourly preparation with no current shortages.
We have also directly confirmed this with the relevant Drug company representative.
As such if the shortages continue please do not hesitate to get in contact with us and we will aim to change your prescription to an available preparation.
It will likely be a capsule form (instead of a tablet), and also it may be that whilst shortages persist you may need 2 types of methylphenidate to ensure you have good daily treatment for your ADHD symptoms.
However, clinicians will ensure they review all records individually to find the best treatment plan for you.
Dr Georgina Brown
Clinical Governance Lead
ADHD Direct
Update 02.11.23
ADHD Medications affected by the shortage
Methylphenidate:
• Equasym XL® 10, 20 and 30 mg capsules
• Xaggitin XL® 18 and 36 mg prolonged-release tablets
• Xenidate XL® 27 mg prolonged-release tablets
Lisdexamfetamine:
• Elvanse® 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 and 70 mg capsules
• Elvanse® Adult 30, 50, and 70 mg capsules
Guanfacine:
• Intuniv® 1, 2, 3 and 4 mg prolonged-release tablets
The shortages are due to the disruption of these products caused by a combination of manufacturing issues and increased global demand. You can find further details on the availability on the SPS website.
Expected stock availability:
Vyvanse® & Intuniv®:
Unlicensed imports of lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse®) capsules and guanfacine (Intuniv®) prolonged-release tablets have been sourced.
Equasym XL®:
Limited parallel imports of methylphenidate (Equasym XL®) modified release capsules remain available.
Atomoxetine:
The supply issue with atomoxetine is set to be resolved in October 2023.
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Next steps:
If your medication is currently affected by the shortage and you require a prescription, you have the following options:
-
Get the prescriptions sent directly to your home or pick it up in our clinic and contact local pharmacies. Some pharmacies might have stock left or restock small amounts.
-
Wait until your medication is back in stock.
Getting a new prescription
You can ask our team to email you a copy of your prescription prior to posting it. Some pharmacies require a copy of the prescription to reserve the medication.
Book a medication review
Book your medication review today. Medication reviews are available as virtual appointments and as in-person appointments in our clinic in Glasgow
ADHD Direct's statement (14.09.23):
Dear patients,
We hope this message finds you well. We are writing to inform you of a current situation regarding the availability of ADHD medications in the UK.
Currently, there is a shortage of multiple strengths of Elvanse and Atomoxetine, both nationwide and globally. This has led to challenges in restocking these medications at pharmacies across the country – affecting many of our patients.
The current situation:
This doesn’t mean that these medications are out of stock entirely – just that specific doses may be currently unavailable (such as a 70mg dose, while the 40mg dose may still be in stock).
We understand that this news may be unsettling and cause worry for those who rely on these medications as a crucial part of their treatment.
Next steps:
Please be assured that we recognize the role these medications play in your well-being, and we are regularly looking for updates on the situation that we can share with you.
Rest assured, we are actively monitoring the situation and are committed to keeping you informed. As updates become available, we will promptly share them with you.
As the situations is so changeable, medication availability can change on a daily weekly basis, but at the current time Elvanse shortages are not expected to improve before the end of this month. Unfortunately, Atomoxetine availability has no proposed date. Shortages are expected to last further into the end of the year.
Thank you for your understanding and patience
Wishing you good health and well-being.
Warm regards,
