Source: PHARMAC
Pharmac is asking for feedback on a proposal to fund another brand of methylphenidate to increase supply and provide more treatment options for people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
If approved, the Rubifen LA (long-acting) brand of methylphenidate will be funded from 1 July 2026. This is a generic equivalent of the already funded Ritalin LA brand of methylphenidate and would be available in the same strengths, as well as a new 60 mg strength.
“We know how hard it has been for people and their families who haven’t been able to get the ADHD medicines they rely on,” says Pharmac’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr David Hughes. “This proposal builds on our earlier decisions to fund methylphenidate Sandoz XR and lisdexamfetamine and is part of our ongoing response to supply issues.”
Global supply issues have affected all brands and strengths of methylphenidate in New Zealand since September 2023 and are expected to continue into 2026. These disruptions are due to a number of factors, including global demand, manufacturing constraints, and restrictions on medicine imports and exports.
In October, Pharmac announced its decision to fund the Sandoz XR brand of methylphenidate. In December 2024, it began funding lisdexamfetamine to improve supply and provide more options for ADHD treatment.
“Adding the Rubifen LA brand of methylphenidate alongside the Sandoz XR brand of methylphenidate would increase overall supply and further reduce the risk of shortages,” says Dr Hughes. “It would also mean that people, and their healthcare providers, would have more options to choose from.”
Pharmac is inviting feedback on the proposal to ensure it works well for the people who need it.
“We’re talking with clinicians, advocacy groups, and others to understand the practical impacts of this proposal. Your feedback will help us make sure this change is fair, workable, and improves access to ADHD medicines across New Zealand,” says Dr Hughes.
Consultation is open until 5 pm, Thursday 4 December 2025. Feedback can be sent to consult@pharmac.govt.nz or submitted via the online form linked in the consultation.
