Unfortunately, there is currently a nation-wide shortage of extended-release methylphenidate tablets.
Both the Concerta and Teva brands have been affected by this.
The shortage is caused by a larger global supply issue. According to Pharmac, "The supply issue remains fluid and can change quickly. We cannot predict when various strengths will be unavailable for pharmacies and people."
Pharmac also warns that at times both brands of methylphenidate ER may be unavailable, and that they are "anticipating that some people will not be able to access the Teva or Concerta brands of extended-release methylphenidate."
The supply status of various strengths are (as of 5 September):
18mg: small shipments of Concerta arriving in coming months, but shortages/outages still expected.
27mg: shipments are expected during September; people will hopefully be able to continue to access this strength.
36mg: shipments have arrived but may take 1-2 weeks to reach pharmacies.
54mg: shipment is due to arrive but may take 1-2 weeks to reach pharmacies.
What should I do if I can't get my Teva or Concerta brand methylphenidate ER?
Check with your local pharmacies
As a starting point, you may want to contact your regular pharmacy and ask them about their current stock and whether they're expecting new deliveries soon. If your regular pharmacy does not have the strength you need available, you may want to call around other pharmacies to see if they have any stock. If a pharmacy has stock available, you will then need to get a new prescription sent there from your doctor.
However, the shortage is expected to be ongoing for quite some time: you may want to consider speaking with your doctor about changing to an alternative.
See your doctor
Pharmac recommends that you see your GP to discuss whether you should be prescribed a different formulation of methylphenidate.
For example, alternatives such as long-acting, sustained-release, and immediate-release formulations of methylphenidate may be an option for you -- but only after consultation with your doctor.
We recommend booking in with your doctor well ahead of time, before your prescription is due to run out: depending on availability, it could be a few days to a week or more before we can get you in.
How long is the shortage expected to last?
Pharmac expects the methylphenidate ER shortage to last until at least mid-2025, but it may go on longer.
Ngā mihi maioha.
We realise this is a stressful situation for many people and we appreciate you working with us to resolve any issues that arise from it.
Please be aware that we do not have any control over or knowledge of where methylphenidate ER stock will be available; stock availability will change swiftly and will differ from pharmacy to pharmacy.
And while our doctors will always do their best to assist, they can only work within their scope of practice and there are regulations for prescribing ADHD medications that they must adhere to. It's possible that some changes to your medication regimen may only be able to be made with the approval of a registered psychiatrist.
Finally, we realise that this shortage may increase financial pressure due to the cost of having new prescriptions generated and/or of needing to see your doctor. If you are facing financial stress, please let your doctor or our practice manager know; we may be able to work out a payment plan with you or assist in other ways.
