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Written question asked by Daisy Cooper (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 5 December 2023, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 11 December 2023 (named day). It was answered by Andrew Stephenson (Conservative) on Monday, 11 December 2023 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

ADHD: Drugs

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps her Department is taking to tackle shortages of (a) methylphenidate, (b) lisdexamfetamine and (c) guanfacine.

Answer

Disruptions to the supply of medicines used for the management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have been primarily driven by issues which have resulted in capacity constraints at key manufacturing sites. The Department has been working closely with the respective manufacturers and some issues have now been resolved. However, we know that there continue to be disruptions to the supply of some other medicines, which should resolve by April 2024.

We understand how frustrating and distressing medicine shortages can be and we want to assure patients that we are working with the respective manufacturers to resolve the issues with ADHD medicine supply in the United Kingdom as soon as possible and to help ensure patients are able to access these medicines, including methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine, and guanfacine in the short and long term.

We have issued communications to the National Health Service to advise healthcare professionals on management of patients whilst there continue to be disruptions to supplies. Patients are advised to speak to their clinician regarding any concerns they have and to discuss the suitability of treatment with alternative medicines.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
5376
Session
2023-24
Subjects
Drugs ADHD Shortages Methylphenidate Lisdexamfetamine Guanfacine
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk