WQ89235 (e) Tabled on 04/10/2023

What steps is the Welsh Government taking to address disruptions to the ADHD medication supply chain?

Answered by Minister for Health and Social Services | Answered on 10/10/2023

There are current supply disruptions to products containing methylphenidate (Equasym XL®, Xaggitin XL®, Concerta XL®, and Xenidate XL®), lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse®) and Guanfacine (Intuniv®) preparations of all strengths are affected.

I wrote to all Members of the Senedd on 5 October to make them aware of this issue and the actions being taken to resolve it.

The supply disruption is affecting all parts of the UK and is caused by a combination of manufacturing issues and an increase in global demand. Whilst other medicines for ADHD remain available supplies cannot meet significant increases in demand. 

At present, the supply disruptions are expected to resolve at various dates between now and December.

Anyone who is having difficulty obtaining treatment should contact their doctor or pharmacist to discuss what alternatives might be available.