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Further ADHD medication shortages
GPs and patients have been warned to plan ahead, with Ritalin tablets already in shortage and further impacts on the way.
There are 413 shortages currently listed on the TGA’s medicine shortage reports database, with a further 80 anticipated.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has warned that Ritalin and Artige immediate-release tablets are now in shortage, adding to a growing list of medication impacts for patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Additionally, from 21 April, a shortage of Ritalin LA 30 mg capsules is also anticipated, with shortages of other strengths expected to start from May and last until the end of 2025.
Pharmaceutical companies confirmed the shortages are due to ‘manufacturing issues’ and are impacting multiple countries.
The announcement comes on top of shortages of Concerta and Methylphenidate-Teva XR products, which are expected to last until 31 December.
‘We acknowledge the concerns and difficulties caused by such shortages, especially due to the specific requirements for prescribing and dispensing methylphenidate hydrochloride,’ the TGA said.
‘We hope this notification will give patients and prescribers the opportunity to plan ahead.
‘Another methylphenidate medicine remains available, and overseas-registered Concerta tablets can be supplied. Other medicines approved to treat ADHD are also available.’
The shortages are the latest in a string of medication difficulties plaguing patients living with ADHD.
Last year, shortages of lisdexamfetamine dimesilate (sold as Vyvanse) caused concerns for patients, however, that shortage has since been resolved.
‘Your patients may want to discuss ongoing treatment options while methylphenidate products are unavailable,’ the TGA said, offering information to prescribers amid the new shortages.
‘We acknowledge the difficulties involved in the prescribing of controlled medicines and the extra administrative workload these shortages cause.
‘We understand that knowing about shortages early enables you to review and change prescriptions and treatment for patients if needed.’
There are 413 shortages currently listed on the TGA’s medicine shortage reports database, with a further 80 anticipated.
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ADHD attention deficit hyperactivity disorder Concerta Ritalin TGA Therapeutic Goods Administration
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