ADHD Medication update from Alder Hey

You may have heard, either from your pharmacist or in the media, that there is a global shortage of some types of ADHD medicines. These include:

Methylphenidate:

· Equasym XL 10, 20 and 30 mg capsules

· Xaggitin XL 18 and 36 mg prolonged-release tablets

· Concerta XL 54 mg prolonged-release tablets

· Xenidate XL 27 mg prolonged-release tablets

Lisdexamfetamine:

· Elvanse 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 and 70 mg capsules

Guanfacine:

· Intuniv 1, 2, 3 and 4 mg prolonged-release tablet

As a result, when you next collect your prescription, the branding or dosage may look different to what you usually have but this will still be Methylphenidate, just a different preparation. This will probably be explained to you by the pharmacist.

The shortage is caused by a combination of manufacturing issues and an increase in global demand.

Rest assured that we are aware of this situation and are preparing carefully considered responses.

If we need to make changes to your child's prescription, we will contact you directly in order of when we think your current medication supply is likely to run out. If you are concerned because your pharmacist cannot get a supply, then please contact us by email at this address: ADHDmedication@alderhey.nhs.uk

The following medications, also commonly used to treat ADHD, continue to be in good supply.

Methylphenidate immediate release tablet:

· Tranquilyn

· Ritalin

· Medikinet

Methylphenidate (8-hour release)

· Medikinet XL prolonged release capsules

Methylphenidate prolonged release tablets (12-hour release):

· Matoride XL

· Delmosart XL

· Affenid XL (these can be used as a direct replacement for affected strengths of Concerta Xl, Xenidate XL, Xaggitin XL)