Living with ADHD
ADHD medication shortage UK: what to do
If you cannot get your ADHD medication in the UK, the safest steps are to contact your pharmacist about local availability and alternatives, and to speak to your prescriber before changing or stopping anything. Do not buy prescription medication from unregulated online sources. Medication decisions are always for your prescriber. This is information, not medical advice.
Information only, not medical advice. Never start, stop or change prescription medication without advice from your prescriber or pharmacist. In an emergency, seek urgent medical help.
Calm, practical steps
- Talk to your pharmacist. They often know local availability and may suggest alternative pack sizes or formulations that your prescriber could authorise.
- Contact your prescriber. If a switch or an interim plan is needed, this is their decision. Ask what to do if supply is interrupted.
- Try a few pharmacies. Stock can differ between branches and areas. Your pharmacist may help you locate supply.
- Plan ahead where you can. Order repeat prescriptions in good time so a short gap is less likely to leave you without medication.
What not to do
- Do not stop or change your medication on your own. Speak to your prescriber first.
- Do not buy prescription stimulants from unregulated websites or unofficial sellers. It is unsafe and unlawful.
- Do not borrow someone else's medication.
Where to get reliable information
Your pharmacist and prescriber are your most reliable contacts for current supply. For general information about ADHD and support, trusted UK sources include the NHS and ADHD UK. We do not publish live stock data because it changes constantly. For wider context on managing ADHD day to day, see what actually helps with adult ADHD.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do first if my ADHD medication is out of stock?
Speak to your pharmacist, who can often advise on local availability or alternative pack sizes, and contact your prescriber if a switch or interim plan may be needed. Do not stop or change your medication without clinical advice.
Can I just stop my medication during a shortage?
That is a decision for you and your prescriber, not something to do on your own. Stopping suddenly can have effects, so ask your clinician for advice on what to do if supply is interrupted.
Is it safe to buy ADHD medication online without a prescription?
No. Buying prescription stimulants from unregulated sources is unsafe and unlawful. Always go through a UK-registered prescriber and pharmacy. If you cannot get your medication, contact your prescriber rather than seeking unofficial supply.
Where can I find reliable information on ADHD medication supply?
Your pharmacist and prescriber are the best first contacts. For background, trusted sources include the NHS and ADHD UK. We do not publish live stock information because it changes constantly and varies by medication and area.
Editor, ADHD Helper
Oliver leads ADHD Helper's editorial coverage of adult ADHD. He researches and writes the plain-English explainers on getting an ADHD assessment through NHS Right to Choose or privately, and on the products and tools people use to manage ADHD, drawing on guidance from the NHS, NICE and the Royal College of Psychiatrists. He is clear that the site is information, not medical advice, and that diagnosis is for a registered clinician.
Last reviewed: 8 June 2026