There’s a global shortage of medications used to treat ADHD. This is due to increased demand and manufacturing challenges. The Department of Health & Social Care issued a National Patient Safety Alert in September 2023 to highlight the problem, but unfortunately, shortages are still ongoing across the UK. As a result, some people are finding it difficult to get their usual medication.

Re-order your next supply in plenty of time, ensuring you have at least 7 days of medication remaining. Speak with your usual community pharmacist to check if they have your medication or are expecting deliveries of the available brands.

Contact other pharmacies in your local area using the NHS Find a pharmacy tool. Availability may differ as pharmacies use various suppliers or wholesalers.

Unfortunately, no comprehensive list of stocked pharmacies is available. Some companies may provide an online tool, but it’s best to contact pharmacies directly to check their supply. Use the NHS Find a pharmacy tool to find local pharmacies and their contact details.

No, over the counter or herbal remedies should not be used as a substitute for prescribed ADHD medication. Always consult your GP or specialist before making any changes to your treatment plan.

It is common for adults/children with stable ADHD to have a few days off medication with no concerns, for example at the weekend. Before considering taking treatment breaks it is important to always discuss with your/ your child’s specialist as not all medicines can be stopped abruptly. Consult your specialist to understand the potential impact on you/your child.

Unfortunately, this is not possible without generating a new prescription. If you can find a pharmacy who are able to part supply the prescription, you can discuss with your Pharmacist/GP if a second prescription for the remaining quantity is appropriate.

If you’re struggling to get your usual medication, your GP or specialist can talk to you about possible alternatives or temporary adjustments to your treatment. It’s important that any changes are made with their guidance.

Whenever possible, it’s best to stay on your current medication. The shortage is affecting many ADHD medicines, so switching could lead to a similar issue if the new medication also becomes unavailable.

ADHD medications can work very differently from each other, so changing to a new one often requires close monitoring and input from a specialist to ensure it’s safe and effective for you.

You should not alter your dosage without consulting your GP or specialist. Incorrect dosages can lead to ineffective treatment or adverse effects.

Some adults and children with stable ADHD may have short treatment breaks (e.g., over weekends) without concerns. However, it’s crucial to consult your specialist before stopping any medication, as not all medicines can be discontinued abruptly.

Reach out to your GP for further advice and support.

Inform your child’s school and agree a plan with the school’s Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) and teacher to help support your child. Encourage effective communication, increase physical activity, maintain an organised daily routine, and ensure a good sleep schedule and balanced diet. Consider education and behavioural support programs like:

• Family Action provide a Norfolk and Waveney ADHD/ Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Support Service. This service offers support to parents/carers of children and young people in Norfolk & Waveney. Parents can access workshops, support groups, courses and individual support and advice in matters relating to their child's needs.
• Norfolk Positive Behaviour Strategies (PBS) is a programme for families of children with additional needs and is available free online. This course will help parents think about the messages a child is trying to communicate and provides some practical skills and strategies to help parents manage their child in a positive way. PBS produced by our partners Norfolk Community Health and Care and Family Action, was originally developed to give group support to families of children who had been referred for assessment by a specialist team.

It may not be feasible to maintain a separate supply of medication for use at school.
Please discuss this with your child’s school and where possible, we recommend establishing a clear system for handing over medication at the start and end of the school day.