“Some medicines intended for the treatment of hyperactivity disorder and attention deficit disorder (methylphenidate, atomoxetine, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) present constraints in their supply due to increased demand”, states the National Authority for Medicines and Health Products (Infamed) in a circular information published on the website.

To guarantee the availability of these medicines, Infarmed says it is “fundamental that doctors, pharmacists and distributors carefully manage available stocks”.

It also appeals to patients to only purchase medicines when necessary, so that the small quantities available can be distributed to everyone who needs them.

Infarmed adds that it has been monitoring market supply with marketing authorization holders and confirms “the existence of supply disruptions for some medicines, particularly in some medicine dosages”, particularly in medicines with the active substance Atomoxetine, in 40 milligram and 60 milligram capsules, and with Methylphenidate, namely in the 10 mg tablet and in the prolonged-release tablets.

In the document, Infarmed warns prescribers that, for new treatments, available medications should be considered, whenever possible.

For ongoing treatments, available alternatives should be considered.

“Medicines with supply constraints should be reserved for those patients whose replacement is difficult”, highlights Infarmed.