Methylphenidate is a drug commonly used for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is the active ingredient in Ritalin, Ritalin SR, Ritalin LA, Concerta, Daytrana, Metadate, Metadate CD, Metadate ER, and Methylin. There are generic versions also. Since the summer there has been a shortage of methylphenidate generic and brand name products. A similar shortage is affecting supply of amphetamine salts (Adderall, Adderall XR).

The shortage is due to supply issues associated with the active ingredient; uneven product distribution; and not enough finished product to meet demand. Some reports suggested that shortage of the active ingredient was due to increased demand and the DEA is unable to release active ingredient fast enough. Regardless of the reason the pain is real for patients, families and healthcare providers.

Here is the availability of methylphenidate products from the latest FDA drug shortage update dated 11/14/2011 and other sources. The phone number for each manufacturer is also included.

• Sandoz (609-627-8500):Expect sporadic backorders of methylphenidate products for the next couple of months.
• Novartis (1-888-669-6682): Ritalin LA 10 and 40 mg are on backorder.
• Mallinckroft (800-325-8888): Very limited supply of most strengths of Methylin IR (immediate release) and ER (extended release) tablets. Timing for a return to full supply is indefinite and may be extended.
• UCB (800-477-7877): UCB is currently in stock in all strengths and presentations of Metadate ER and CD products. UCB is currently out of stock of 5 mg and 20 mg immediate release product and expect resupply by February 2012.
• Watson (973-355-8300): Watson has product (5, 10, 20 mg) available for contracted customers only.
• Noven (866-663-2539): All strengths of Daytrana (methylphenidate transdermal system) are available.
• Janssen-Ortho-McNeil (800-526-7736): Concerta is available.

If this shortage impacts you here are some suggestions:

• Check with your local pharmacy and ask the pharmacy to locate a supply before your medication runs out.
• Brand name may be available so patients may consider brand name if they can pay or if their insurance will cover it due to a shortage.
• Converting to an extended release product may be an option for some patients.
• Not all strengths, formulations and brands are equally affected so depending on the strength or formulation required some patients may not be impacted.

The good news is that some of these shortages are expected to resolve early 2012.

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