Shortage of medicines for ADHD

Update January 2026

In recent months there has been a worldwide shortage of ADHD medicines because of increased global demand and manufacturing problems. Supply issues affecting atomoxetine capsules, guanfacine (Intuniv) modified-release tablets and methylphenidate (Equasym XL) modified release capsules have been resolved. Restrictions placed on new patient initiations for guanfacine and atomoxetine have been lifted and service providers should resume prescribing for new and deferred patients.

Although many of the initial shortages have now resolved, this shortage continues to affect some methylphenidate preparations. This situation may change, and different strengths and preparations may be affected over the coming weeks.

What to do if you can't get your usual prescription

If there is a medication shortage

If your pharmacy does not have a supply of your prescription, the first step is to try other pharmacies, as another one may have it in stock. You can use the find a pharmacy page on the NHS website to find one near you.

Your local pharmacy may also help you to find a supply, and you can ask for your prescription to be made available to other pharmacies. If you are still unable to get your prescription, please contact your ADHD service or GP for advice.

There are alternatives available in most cases, but they may not be suitable for everyone. Your ADHD service or GP may be able to advise on alternatives for you, or they may recommend a dose change or short treatment break and direct you to additional self-help resources. There are various support organisations and groups for people with ADHD across the North East and North Cumbria (see below for details).

If you run out

Medication breaks are safe for the majority of ADHD medications (unless you are taking Guanfacine/Intuniv), although pausing or reducing ADHD medication will have an effect on ADHD symptoms which will impact you at home, work or school. It's best to consult your ADHD service or GP for guidance if you think you are running out of medication.

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.

If temporarily or permanently stopping methylphenidate, it is possible to stop without tapering. If restarting methylphenidate after short breaks (up to 2 weeks), it is possible to recommence at the same dose if appropriate. Seek specialist advice for dosing after longer breaks.

Further information about managing symptoms can be found here Common questions about methylphenidate for adults - NHS or Methylphenidate for children: a medicine used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) - NHS

Lisdexamphetamine: doesn't usually require tapering – side effects not expected, but some patients may experience fatigue or sleepiness for several days

Atomoxetine: can be stopped without ill effects. Taking atomoxetine some days and not others may not work well. It is usually best to either stop completely or to continue taking some every day.

Guanfacine: If you are taking this medication, it is very important to reduce slowly before stopping and this must be done under the guidance of your ADHD clinician.

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

If your provider ceases to provide your prescription:

  • Providers must not automatically discharge patients on ADHD medication unless there is a safe, agreed plan in place. If a provider closes, there should be a formal handover to another provider or to the patient’s GP, but this may not always happen in practice.
  • Shared care agreements are required for GPs to prescribe ADHD medication. If the specialist is no longer available, a new referral may be needed before prescriptions can resume.
  • GPs are not able to prescribe ADHD medication without specialist input, but they can advise on next steps and may be able to refer you to another provider.

Ask about alternatives

  • There may be alternative medications or temporary treatment breaks that are safe for many patients. Non-medication interventions can help during treatment breaks.
  • Most ADHD medications can be stopped for a short period without significant withdrawal but monitor for any changes and seek advice if you are concerned.

Please remember…

Local NHS teams 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 healthcare staff are doing their very best to help.

 

Key Messages

  • If you are left without a prescription due to provider closure, contact your NHS ADHD service or GP immediately.
  • GPs may need to refer you to a new specialist before resuming prescriptions.
  • Temporary treatment breaks may be safe for some but always seek clinical advice.
  • Local NHS teams are aware of the issue and are working to provide updated guidance and support.

 

Other support for patients and carers

  • ADHD Aware – a charity run by volunteers, some with experience of ADHD themselves, who offer support group meetings to provide a safe space for people with ADHD and their friends and families​
  • ADHD Foundation – a charity advocating for people with ADHD and other physical and psychological health conditions​
  • ADHD UK run support groups, informative lectures, and Q&A sessions​
  • You can also find helpful information on the NHS website on healthy living, mindfulness and sleeping and tiredness.

Further information for health care providers