About the shortage of methylphenidate hydrochloride modified-release tablets

Pharmaceutical company Janssen-Cilag has notified us about the following current and anticipated shortages of their Concerta (methylphenidate hydrochloride) modified-release tablet products (see table below). 

The other supplier of modified-release methylphenidate hydrochloride tablets, Teva Pharma Australia, has also reported shortages for all strengths until the end of 2025 (see table below).

These shortages are due to manufacturing issues and are affecting multiple countries. 

These methylphenidate hydrochloride products are used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). 

We understand how crucial it is for patients and their caregivers to have consistent access to methylphenidate modified release tablets. We acknowledge the concerns and difficulties caused by shortages of this medicine, especially due to the specific requirements for prescribing and dispensing it. 

We are working with the pharmaceutical companies to minimise the impact on patients, prescribers and pharmacies by closely monitoring the supply of all strengths and updating this page with new information as soon as it becomes available. 

Other forms of methylphenidate medicines, such as immediate-release tablets and modified-release capsules, remain available. Other medicines approved to treat ADHD are also available. 

We urge patients who will be affected by these shortages to speak with their pharmacist about supply. They should also consult with their prescribers early about their treatment plan, as new prescriptions may be needed to access alternate treatments, and it may be difficult to make appointments over the holiday season.

You can go to the Medicine Shortage Reports Database- external site (search for ‘methylphenidate’) for the most up-to-date information. 

Please also know that there is always someone to talk to about mental health and behavioural concerns. If you or someone close to you is experiencing an emergency, or is at immediate risk of harm, call triple zero (000). To talk to someone now, call Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.