A FIFE MP has called on the UK Government to find a solution to the ongoing shortage of ADHD medication across the Kingdom.

Wendy Chamberlain, MP for North East Fife, has been campaigning on behalf of a constituent whose young daughter is struggling due to being unable to access medication.

Shortages of the vital medication have been reported as lasting as long as 14 months, causing patients to change their prescriptions.

Now, Ms Chamberlain has written to the secretary of state urging him to provide an update and to seek a solution to the nationwide shortages.

“These shortages have gone on for far too long,” she said. “Those who need the medication are having their daily lives impacted by the shortages, such as my constituents who are unable to access the treatment they need.

“I urge the secretary of state for an urgent update on the current status of ADHD medication shortages, when this is expected to be resolved, and what steps are being taken to ensure a swift resolution.”

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Pharmacists say the shortage of ADHD medication has been caused by both increased demand and worldwide manufacturing issues.

Laura Wilson, director for Scotland at the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, said: “Pharmacy teams are taking steps to reduce the impact of shortages, including maintaining supplies where possible, exploring alternative options with patients and encouraging patients and carers to ask educational settings and workplaces to make suitable adjustments.

“Royal Pharmaceutical Society is keen to see conversations taking place between all stakeholders about how to avoid medicines shortages and, if they are inevitable, how we manage them in the safest and least disruptive way for patients.”

The Press contacted the Department of Health and Social Care with the UK Government, who explained that they were working to resolve the crisis as soon as possible.

A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care said: “We know how frustrating and distressing medicine supply issues can be for patients, and the pharmacists and clinicians caring for them.

“This government inherited a broken NHS alongside global supply problems that continue to impact the availability of medicines, including ADHD medication, and we are working closely with industry, the NHS, manufacturers and other partners in the supply chain to resolve current issues as quickly as possible.”