Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects people’s concentration and makes them restless and impulsive. Medications that help individuals with ADHD focus and feel calmer are in high demand but currently facing shortages in many countries.
Which ADHD medicines are affected?
Several drugs used to treat ADHD symptoms are currently in short supply. This includes commonly used drugs like amphetamine mixed salts, methylphenidate, and lisdexamfetamine. Two firms, Teva and Takeda, have reported manufacturing delays for these medications. The shortages are not limited to these drugs but are also affecting less commonly used ADHD medications. These disruptions are occurring globally, with export bans implemented in some countries like the UK.
Are rising diagnoses of ADHD contributing to the shortage?
Yes, the rising global demand for ADHD medications has contributed to the shortage. In the UK, ADHD diagnoses among men have increased nearly 20-fold between 2000 and 2018. In the US, young adults aged 22 to 44 are the biggest contributors to the rising demand for ADHD medications. Prescriptions for the most commonly used drug have increased by about 50 percent in this group between 2018 and 2022.
As a response to the shortage, doctors in the UK were advised not to prescribe ADHD medications to newly diagnosed individuals until the supply problems have eased. NHS England is expected to issue guidelines to prioritize individuals at the highest risk of treatment interruption due to medication shortages.
How long will the shortage last?
Generic manufacturing of lisdexamfetamine in the US, which began in August, is expected to improve supplies. The UK government has stated that the overall shortage of ADHD medications may continue until December.
What can individuals do if they are running short of pills?
Individuals using ADHD medications are advised to contact different pharmacies as supplies can vary between stores. They can also ask their doctor to prescribe a different brand, considering the availability of different medications. In some cases, individuals may be able to reduce their dose, but this should only be done under the guidance of a doctor; abruptly changing dosing regimens can lead to undesirable symptoms.
What happens if individuals run out of medication?
For individuals taking stimulant medications, stopping and starting treatment may already be a familiar practice, as these drugs are short-acting. Some individuals only take them on days when they need them the most, such as during work or school days. However, symptoms return on days when doses are missed. Non-stimulant medications used for ADHD should not be abruptly stopped, as one of them has a similar mechanism to antidepressants and the other can cause raised blood pressure if not reduced slowly.
Are there alternatives to medication?
For children with ADHD, the initial approach after diagnosis often involves professionals providing advice to parents and schools on behavioral strategies. In adults, medication is usually the first line of treatment, although mindfulness courses have shown some evidence of helping with symptoms. Exercise may also be beneficial for individuals of all ages with ADHD, as it can raise levels of a chemical called dopamine in the brain, similar to the effects of ADHD stimulant medications.
