What steps is the Welsh Government taking to address ongoing supply chain disruptions to ADHD medication, including Equasym?
Whilst medicines supply is devolved, where appropriate the UK Government takes the lead role on the management of medicines supply and shortages, to ensure people have equity of access to medicines. We work closely with the UK and other devolved governments, manufacturers, wholesalers, prescribers and pharmacies.
There have been supply disruptions of medicines used for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) since autumn 2023. People who have received prescriptions for ADHD medicines have experienced some difficulties getting some of these medicines.
The disruptions affecting many of these medicines are now resolved. However, we are still monitoring disruptions to the supply of medicines which contain methylphenidate, including prolonged-release forms such as Xenidate XL and Xaggitin XL and modified-release forms such as Equasym XL and Metyrol XL. Supplies of Equasym XL are expected to return by 25 July.
To provide people with timely advice about medicines shortages, a dedicated page on the Welsh Government website has been created: Medicines shortages | GOV.WALES. Here you will find general advice on why shortages can occur, how they are managed, as well as specific information relating to significant disruptions that are likely to cause concern.