National disruption of medication supplies to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Since October 2023 there has been a national issue with the supply of some medications prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), including some brands and/or strengths of:

Methylphenidate
Lisdexamfetamine
Guanfacine
Atomoxetine
The supply disruption is caused by a combination of manufacturing issues and an increased global demand.

Some other ADHD products remain available but cannot meet excessive increases in demand.

The supply problems are expected to resolve later this year but may last until 2024 for some products.

All GP practices, hospitals and specialist clinics in England have been contacted through the National Patient Safety Alert system and asked to identify patients prescribed these medications.

GP practices and specialist services across Birmingham and Solihull are currently in the process of responding to the alert.

You may be contacted if you are prescribed one of the medications above.

If you are contacted your doctor will check how much of your medication you have left, and if needed can advise if there is an equivalent product that is available.

You may be referred back to a specialist team for further advice on your ADHD management plan.

Please do not share your medication with anyone else, order your usual prescription earlier than it is needed, or stop your medication suddenly without discussing with your GP or specialist.

The national alert instructs clinicians not to start these medicines for new patients until the supply issues have resolved.

Across Birmingham and Solihull, specialists, GPs and community pharmacy will work together to minimise the impact of these shortages, but the availability issues are likely to affect some patients.