Will the ADHD Med Shortage affect you?
The TGA have announced further medications that are currently being affected due to shortages and supply issues.
In addition to the shortage of Concerta and Methylphenidate-Teva XR products, the TGA have now advised people that Ritalin and Artige immediate-release tablets are now also in shortage.
A shortage of Ritalin LA capsules is anticipated, starting from 21 April 2025 for the 30 mg strength, and from May, June and July 2025 for the other strengths.
These medicines are used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
TGA said “We acknowledge the concerns and difficulties caused by such shortages, especially due to the specific requirements for prescribing and dispensing methylphenidate hydrochloride. We hope this notification will give patients and prescribers the opportunity to plan ahead.”
What is affected?
Concerta
Methylphenidate-Teva XR
Ritalin
Artige
Ritalin LA is also expected to be in shortage starting from 21 April 2025 for the 30 mg strength, and from May, June and July 2025 for the other strengths.
What can you do?
The TGA urges patients who are affected by these shortages to speak with their pharmacist about their supply of medicine.
Your pharmacist can tell you about the best way to get your medicine during these shortages.
They also suggest patients consult with their prescribers early about their treatment plan, as they may need a new prescription.
Another methylphenidate medicine remains available, and overseas-registered Concerta tablets can be supplied. Other medicines approved to treat ADHD are also available.
To help with supply, TGA have approved access to several overseas-registered strengths of Concerta modified-release tablets. Your pharmacist can order these alternative products by contacting the approval holder, Medsurge.
The TGA say they understand it can be frustrating when you are unable to get your preferred brand of a medicine, but using other brands, including overseas-registered products, may at times be unavoidable during these shortages.
If your pharmacist offers you an overseas-registered alternative medicine, they should explain any differences between the products.
Please note that certain medicines a pharmacist can substitute may cost you more, and in some cases you may require a new prescription. The pharmacist will tell you about this.
If you are having difficulty getting your regular medicines, speak to your doctor about alternative options for your situation.
