Date published: 16 July 2024

NHS Cheshire and Merseyside have issued urgent advice for those struggling to find Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) medication due to shortages affecting all the UK.

The national shortages are believed to have been caused by a number of factors, including an increase in demand for the medication and a change in the companies that produce and supply it around the UK.

It affects a number of different medications used to to treat ADHD, including the following:

  • Methylphenidate prolonged-release capsules and tablets

  • Lisdexamfetamine capsules

  • Guanfacine prolonged-release tablets

  • Atomoxetine capsules and liquid.

NHS Cheshire and Merseyside advise anyone struggling to find medication should try different pharmacies and there is a comprehensive list of local outlets on the NHS England website. They also warn anyone struggling to locate medication should not make any decisions about that or dosage amounts without guidance from their ADHD team or Doctor.