As someone personally affected by the ongoing shortage of certain ADHD medications, I understand the distress and disruption this crisis is causing for individuals, families, and schools. Many people have struggled for years to find a medication that improves their quality of life. Now they are being forced to reduce and discontinue these life-changing treatments because prescribers cannot meet demand due to severe shortages in crucial ADHD medications. This is not just an inconvenience; it's a disaster that is affecting thousands. The affected to date 17/10/2023:

Methylphenidate

Equasym XL® 10, 20 and 30 mg capsules
Concerta XL® 54 mg tablet
Xaggitin XL® 18 and 36 mg tablets
Xenidate XL® 27 mg tablets  
Lisdexamfetamine

Elvanse® 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 and 70 mg capsules
Elvanse® Adult 30, 50, and 70 mg capsules  
Guanfacine

Intuniv® 1, 2, 3 and 4 mg tablets  
Atomoxetine All strengths

The Department for Health and Social Care, along with all others involved in the sourcing and supply of medicines, must urgently address this issue. The impact on those affected is enormous - from increased difficulty managing daily tasks to potential restraint collapse at home and school. In severe cases, this withdrawal of their medication will mean children cannot regulate, resulting in potentially being a risk to themselves and others due to dysregulation when overwhelmed and distressed. It is a serious concern for schools, especially special schools who may have a significant percentage of their pupils changing medication all at the same time.

We urge those responsible not only acknowledge this crisis but take immediate action towards sourcing sufficient supplies of ADHD medication. Please sign this petition if you believe everyone deserves access to essential medical treatment without interruption or fear.