There are emerging shortages of extended release methylphenidate (Concerta and Methylphenidate-XR) that is likely to continue for around 10 months.
Currently GPs are able to prescribe stimulant medications under Victorian law if they obtain a permit to prescribe under the supervision of a Paediatrician or Psychiatrists.
If GPs are consulted by patients unable to access Concerta or equivalents, and if they have a permit for long acting methylphenidate, GP’s will be able to change to Ritalin LA (or equivalent brands) with a possible combinations of short acting Ritalin. The below table gives a guide to approximate equivalent doses
Switching from Concerta to Ritalin LA and Ritalin (short acting)
Concerta dose | Rough equivalent deliverable dose of short acting Ritalin | Option 1 | Option 2 | Afternoon top ups (if needed) |
Concerta 18 | 6+6+6 | Ritalin LA 10 | Ritalin 5 | |
Concerta 27 | 9+9+9 | Ritalin LA 20 | Ritalin 5-10 | |
Concerta 36 | 12+12+12 | Ritalin LA 20 | Ritalin LA 20 + Ritalin 5 mane | Ritalin 10 |
Concerta 45 | 15+15+15 | Ritaln LA 30 | Ritalin 10-15 | |
Concerta 54 | 18+18+18 | Ritalin LA 40 | Ritalin LA 30 + 5 mane | Ritalin 15 |
Concerta 63 | 21+21+21 | Ritalin LA 40 | Ritalin 15-20 | |
Concerta 72 | 24+24+24 | Ritaln LA 40 + Ritalin 5 mane | Ritalin LA 40 + Ritalin 10 mane | Ritalin 15-25 |