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Shortage of medicines for ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) – Information for patients, families and carers – Updated July 2025

There is a worldwide shortage of ADHD medicines because of increased global demand and manufacturing problems. In the NHS we are doing everything we can to address this situation, and to support patients until this problem is resolved. Below we have set out answers to some of the questions you may have about this situation.

What medicines are affected by the shortage?
At the moment, some methylphenidate modified-release preparations are affected.

These can include tablet preparations such as:

  • Concerta XL
  • Xenidate XL
  • Delmosart
  • Matoride XL
  • Xaggitin XL

They can also include capsule preparations such as:

  • Equasym XL

This may change and different strengths and preparations may be affected over the coming weeks.

How long will the shortage last?
The shortages of different products are expected to resolve at various dates between July and September 2025.

Is this affecting all pharmacies?
This is a national shortage affecting all suppliers. Some ADHD products remain available but the situation changes frequently.

What should I do if I cannot get my ADHD prescription from the pharmacy?
Firstly, try other pharmacies as another one may have it in stock. You can use the find a pharmacy link below to help you locate pharmacies and their contact details that are close to you: www.nhs.uk/service-search/pharmacy/find-a-pharmacy

Your local pharmacy may also help you to find a supply of your medicines. You can ask for your prescription to be made available to other community pharmacies. You can also try to locate stock from Boots pharmacy using their prescription stock checker: www.boots.com/online/psc

If you are still unable to get your prescription, please contact your GP or ADHD service for advice. Do not try to substitute other medications yourself as this may be dangerous.

Are there alternative medications available?
In many cases, there are alternatives but they may not be suitable for everyone or currently available. Your GP and specialist in the ADHD service may advise alternatives for you or may recommend a dose change or short treatment break and direct you to additional self-help resources.

What if I run out?
Methylphenidate: for most methylphenidate products there is an equivalent product that can be substituted. These medicines can safely be stopped for a few days, for example over weekends, but it is best to consult your GP or ADHD service for guidance if you think you are running out of medication.

National guidelines recommend having regular treatment breaks from ADHD medications, so it is not unusual to stop taking medication over the weekend or during school holidays.

Please remember…
Our doctors, nurses and pharmacists are doing everything they can to help people through a difficult situation. We know that this may be an upsetting situation, but please be patient and remember that this is a worldwide manufacturing problem and healthcare staff are doing their very best to help.

If you have further questions, please speak with your GP practice or ADHD service.

Created in partnership by North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board, Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust and Tees, Esk and Wear Valley NHS Foundation Trust. Updated by CNTW Pharmacy 4 July 2025.