Navigating Australia’s Shortage of Long-Acting Methylphenidate: Practical Steps for Individuals & Families

Many families across Australia are finding it harder than usual to fill prescriptions for long-acting (extended/modified-release) methylphenidate used to manage ADHD. If this is affecting you or your child, you’re not alone and there are clear, practical steps you can take with your treating specialist and local pharmacist to maintain safe, effective treatment during this supply disruption.

What’s Happening?

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has identified ongoing supply issues affecting several long-acting methylphenidate products and strengths. For current details and updates, see the TGA’s page: About the shortage of methylphenidate hydrochloride products .

Shortages can vary by brand, strength, and location. Even when one product is available, another may not be. The TGA and suppliers sometimes use temporary measures (such as allowing equivalent overseas-registered products under Section 19A approvals) to help, but stock can remain tight and access may differ between pharmacies.

Why Continuity Matters

Consistent access to a long-acting stimulant helps stabilise attention, learning, emotional regulation, and daily routines. Unexpected gaps can lead to fluctuations in focus or mood, strain at school or work, and understandable anxiety for families. The goal during the shortage is to plan early, stay flexible, and communicate closely with your healthcare team so treatment remains safe and effective.

Practical Steps You Can Take Now

1) Speak with your treating specialist early

Flag supply problems as soon as they appear. Don’t wait until you are down to the last few doses.
Discuss bridging options. Your clinician may suggest a temporary switch to immediate-release (IR) methylphenidate (with adjusted timing), a different stimulant class (e.g., dexamfetamine or lisdexamfetamine), or if appropriate non-stimulant options.
Get a clear written plan. Ask for dose conversions, timing guidance, and what to monitor (benefits, side effects, appetite, sleep, mood).
Consider a back-up script. Where clinically suitable, your specialist may provide an alternative prescription in case your usual brand/strength isn’t available at the time of dispensing.

2) Build a partnership with your local pharmacist

Give advance notice of upcoming refills. Ask to be placed on a waiting or call list and request an order ahead of time.
Ask about Section 19A options. Some pharmacies can order TGA-approved overseas alternatives; availability and lead times vary.
Ask about script transfers. If your usual pharmacy cannot source stock, they may be able to transfer your prescription to another pharmacy that can follow your state/territory rules.
Keep communication flowing. Let the pharmacy know about any dose changes or alternative plans your clinician has provided.

3) Check official updates regularly

The TGA’s shortage listings are updated as new information becomes available. Bookmark the page and review it periodically: TGA: About the shortage of methylphenidate hydrochloride products .

4) Be flexible with formulations—safely

Immediate-release as a bridge. IR methylphenidate can be effective when dosed correctly; your clinician will tailor timing to cover school/work hours while minimising late-day effects on appetite and sleep.
Alternative stimulants or non-stimulants. If long-acting methylphenidate is unavailable, another agent may provide stable control. Any change should be closely monitored and recorded.
Track symptoms. Use a simple daily log (focus, behaviour, appetite, sleep, side effects). Share this with your clinician to guide fine-tuning.

5) Refill earlier than usual

Avoid last-minute scripts. Aim to request refills 1–2 weeks ahead. This gives your pharmacist time to locate stock or order alternatives.
Set calendar reminders. Consistent reminders reduce the risk of supply gaps.

6) Loop in school and supports

Tell the school or workplace. If a temporary change may affect attention or regulation, brief teachers or managers so expectations and supports can be adjusted.
Lean on community networks. ADHD organisations and local groups sometimes share up-to-date stock tips or practical coping strategies.

We’re In This Together

Supply constraints are stressful, but a collaborative plan can maintain continuity of care. At Pandion Health, we encourage families to:

Contact your treating specialist early to map out a safe bridging plan.
Engage proactively with your local pharmacist about ordering windows, 19A options, and realistic timelines.
Stay informed via the TGA and share updates with your care team.

If you’re struggling to source medication or need help adjusting a plan, please reach out. Our clinicians can work with you and your pharmacist to reduce disruption and keep treatment on track.

Official Information & Updates

TGA — About the shortage of methylphenidate hydrochloride products

This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Always follow the guidance of your treating specialist and pharmacist.