Skip to content
MediWatch Get free alerts
Home > Shortages > ADHD > Methylphenidate

Is Methylphenidate in Shortage?

UK supply status for Methylphenidate — used for adhd

Source data checked 12 November 2026, 06:18 UTC
No current notice

No current notice — there is no active shortage notice for Methylphenidate in official DHSC / NHSBSA data (official data last checked 12 November 2026, 06:18 UTC). Local stock can still vary, so check with your pharmacy. This covers DHSC supply notices for community pharmacies and NHSBSA Serious Shortage Protocols; a supplier stock problem can affect pharmacies before a notice is issued.

Not medical advice. MediWatch reports official UK medicine supply data; it is not a substitute for advice from a pharmacist, GP or prescriber. Do not stop, change or switch a medicine without speaking to them first. If you are unwell, contact NHS 111, or call 999 in an emergency. How we check our information.

Track Methylphenidate

We'll email you only when this medicine's status actually changes — including when its official shortage notice ends. Most weeks that's nothing, and that's good news. Your first 5 tracked medicines are free.

Nearby pharmacies to call about Methylphenidate

Enter your postcode to see nearby NHS-registered pharmacies. Stock is not confirmed.

MediWatch does not guarantee live local stock. Call the pharmacy to confirm before travelling, and never stop or change medication without medical advice.

Where to get Methylphenidate

  1. Speak to your pharmacist. They may be able to order it from another wholesaler, or suggest a different strength or form.
  2. Ask your GP or prescriber about an alternative if it can't be sourced. Don't stop or switch medicine on your own.
  3. Try other pharmacies. Stock varies between pharmacies. Find nearby pharmacies to call or use the NHS Find a pharmacy service (opens in a new tab).
⚠️ Our data shows national supply status from DHSC, NHSBSA and MHRA. Your local pharmacy may still be temporarily out of stock due to delivery schedules or local demand. Always check with your pharmacist.

No current shortage notice. Methylphenidate has no active shortage notice in official DHSC / NHSBSA data. Local stock can still vary, so check with your pharmacy.

About Methylphenidate

Methylphenidate is one of the most commonly prescribed medicines in the UK. It is primarily used for adhd.

Category: ADHD

What to Do If You Can't Get Methylphenidate

Even without a national shortage, individual pharmacies may occasionally have stock issues. If this happens:

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Methylphenidate in shortage in the UK?

Based on the latest DHSC and NHSBSA data, Methylphenidate does not currently have an active shortage notification. Supply situations can change — sign up for MediWatch alerts to be notified immediately if this changes.

What is Methylphenidate used for?

Methylphenidate is commonly prescribed in the UK for adhd. It is one of the most widely prescribed medicines in the NHS.

What should I do if I can't get Methylphenidate?

If your pharmacy cannot supply Methylphenidate, ask them to check alternative suppliers. Your GP may also prescribe a suitable therapeutic alternative.

No Active Shortage

As of March 2026, Methylphenidate does not have an active shortage notification from DHSC or NHSBSA. Supply situations can change rapidly — search MediWatch free any time to check if this changes.

Note: This medicine had 1 previous shortage notification that has since been resolved.

⚠️ Important: Corticosteroids Medication Safety

Urgency: Do not stop taking your prescribed medication without consulting your doctor, even if supply is disrupted.

What to do: Contact your GP or pharmacist as soon as you become aware of a shortage affecting your medication. The earlier you act, the more options you will have.

Tip: Phone ahead before visiting the pharmacy. Many pharmacies can check stock levels by phone and may be able to order your medication from their wholesaler.

Previous Shortage History

Notification Source Date Issued Status
Methylphenidate prolonged-release tablets DHSC MSN 2024-08-22 Resolved

Data sourced from DHSC Medicine Supply Notifications and NHSBSA Serious Shortage Protocols. Last verified: March 2026. See our data sources and editorial policy for full methodology.

Related Medicines (ADHD)

Elvanse

ADHD (lisdexamfetamine) →

Concerta

ADHD (methylphenidate extended-release) →

Atomoxetine

ADHD (non-stimulant) →

Helpful Guides

What to Do When Out of Stock

Step-by-step guide →

How NHS Shortages Work

Understanding the system →

Your Rights

When prescriptions unavailable →

Get Alerted If This Changes

Search Methylphenidate's live shortage status free, any time

Check Now Free →

Data sourced from DHSC and NHSBSA. Updated daily.

Source checked against official shortage sources · Editorial policy · Sources: BNF · NHS SPS