Source: PHARMAC
Pharmac is seeking feedback on a proposal to fund a new brand of methylphenidate to help address ongoing supply issues and provide more treatment options for people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
If approved, the proposal would see Methylphenidate Sandoz XR funded from 1 December 2025. This is a generic equivalent to the Concerta brand and would be available in the same strengths.
“We know how distressing it’s 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 is part of our response to the ongoing supply issues and aims to provide more options for people who need these treatments.”
Supply issues have affected all brands and strengths of methylphenidate in New Zealand since September 2023 and are expected to continue throughout 2025. These disruptions are due to global demand, manufacturing constraints, and restrictions on medicine imports and exports.
“Adding a new brand is intended to help increase the overall supply of methylphenidate and reduce the risk of shortages,” says Dr Hughes.
“It also helps us prepare for upcoming changes in February 2026, when more health professionals – including GPs and nurse practitioners – will be able to prescribe ADHD medicines.”
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 understand how this proposal might work in practice and whether it meets the needs of people with ADHD,” says Dr Hughes.
Consultation is open until 5 pm, Wednesday 1 October 2025. Feedback can be sent to consult@pharmac.govt.nz or submitted via the online form linked in the consultation.
