Andorra Faces ADHD Drug Shortage Amid European Demand Surge

Andorra is facing shortages of lisdexamfetamine, a first-line medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), amid surging demand across Europe.

Pharmacists attribute the issue to supply constraints from neighbouring countries, particularly Spain, which prioritise domestic needs during periods of high demand. Jesús Robinat, president of the College of Pharmacists, explained that Andorra relies entirely on imports for this drug. "When there's tension and high demand in Spain—or France, if applicable—they keep most of it for themselves and reserve only a small amount for export," he said. This has led to situations where families spot the medication in La Seu d'Urgell, just across the border, only to find pharmacies in the Principat out of stock.

The shortage stems from a broader European spike in ADHD diagnoses and prescriptions, especially among children but also adults. Teresa Cobo, vice-president of the Andorran ADHD association Albatros (ANDTDAH Albatros), noted that families repeatedly hear the same response at pharmacies: no stock available, with no clear restock date. While not a life-saving drug, she emphasised its importance: "For children doing homework or students facing exams, lacking this support affects them greatly."

Health professionals often switch patients to alternative ADHD treatments, which are available. Robinat stressed that such changes pose no major risk to children, countering parental concerns about disrupting established stability. He also highlighted similar issues with antihypertensive drugs from France, though those can sometimes be sourced from Spain instead.

Despite these challenges, Robinat described the situation as manageable, provided pharmacies remain well-organised and sufficiently staffed. "Pharmacies must stay close to the patient," he said, cautioning against uncontrolled expansion that could dilute supply. No timeline has been given for resolving the lisdexamfetamine shortage.