Home > ADHD Stimulant Shortage > Concerta
By Ryan S. Sultan, MD
Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center
Data updated:
Quick Answer: Is There a Concerta Shortage?Yes. As of October 8, 2026, the FDA Drug Shortages Database lists extended-release methylphenidate tablets (Concerta, Relexxii and generics) as currently in shortage, with 6 of 34 package listings unavailable and 9 limited across 6 manufacturers. The full ADHD stimulant shortage picture | Schedule a consultation |
FDA status, October 2026
This page is generated from the FDA Drug Shortages Database and refreshed monthly. A listing is one package (NDC) a manufacturer reports; counts describe how many products are affected, not how much supply exists.
By strength
Package listings by dose, as manufacturers report them to FDA.
| Strength | Available | Limited | Unavailable |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18 mg | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| 27 mg | 4 | 1 | 2 |
| 36 mg | 3 | 2 | 2 |
| 45 mg | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| 54 mg | 5 | 1 | 1 |
| 63 mg | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| 72 mg | 1 | 1 | 0 |
By manufacturer
Pharmacies order by manufacturer and NDC, so knowing which manufacturers report a strength as available gives you something specific to ask about.
| Manufacturer | Available | Limited | Unavailable | Strengths reported available |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Janssen Pharmaceuticals | 4 | 0 | 0 | 18 mg, 27 mg, 36 mg, 54 mg |
| Lannett Company, Inc. | 2 | 0 | 2 | 18 mg, 54 mg |
| Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc. | 0 | 0 | 4 | none |
| Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. | 2 | 2 | 0 | 27 mg, 54 mg |
| Trigen Laboratories, LLC | 0 | 7 | 0 | none |
| Vertical Pharmaceuticals, LLC | 11 | 0 | 0 | 18 mg, 27 mg, 36 mg, 45 mg, 54 mg, 63 mg, 72 mg |
Switching: what the label says
Concerta and its generics are dosed once each morning, and the Concerta label gives a direct table for switching from immediate-release methylphenidate: 5 mg two or three times daily converts to 18 mg, 10 mg to 36 mg, 15 mg to 54 mg and 20 mg to 72 mg. The Concerta and Ritalin conversion table has the full version, including where 27 mg fits.
Source: Concerta prescribing information (DailyMed). The within-class substitution principles on the main shortage page cover switching more broadly.
If your pharmacy can't fill it
- Call before the prescription is sent. Ask whether the exact strength is in stock, and which manufacturer's product they carry.
- Ask about another strength combination. Two tablets or capsules of a lower strength can make the same dose when one strength is short. This needs a new prescription written that way.
- Ask about another form of the same medication before changing medications, using the label rule above.
- Bring your prescriber the specifics: the strength, what the pharmacy has, and when they expect resupply. The patient framework on the main shortage page goes through this in order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a Concerta shortage right now?
Yes. As of October 8, 2026, the FDA Drug Shortages Database lists extended-release methylphenidate tablets (Concerta, Relexxii and generics) as currently in shortage, with 6 of 34 package listings unavailable and 9 limited across 6 manufacturers.
What can I take if Concerta is unavailable?
Concerta and its generics are dosed once each morning, and the Concerta label gives a direct table for switching from immediate-release methylphenidate: 5 mg two or three times daily converts to 18 mg, 10 mg to 36 mg, 15 mg to 54 mg and 20 mg to 72 mg. The Concerta and Ritalin conversion table has the full version, including where 27 mg fits. Any switch should be made with your prescriber.
Related
ADHD stimulant shortage: causes and strategy · Vyvanse · Adderall XR · Ritalin · Focalin · Dexedrine · Concerta vs Ritalin · Non-stimulant options
Educational information only. Not medical advice. Do not change a dose or medication without your prescriber.