Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) has voiced concern over the continued unavailability of methylphenidate, a key medication prescribed for children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), due to legal restrictions.

The issue came to light during a meeting of Parliament’s Petition Committee, which was convened to review a petition alleging negligence in granting legal benefits to children with disabilities.

Responding to questions from committee members, MFDA Director of Pharmaceutical Services, Aishath Jaleela, acknowledged that both doctors and families had raised repeated complaints about the shortage of methylphenidate. She explained that although the drug is scientifically approved as an effective treatment for ADHD, its import has been hindered by provisions under the Drugs Act.

“Methylphenidate is recognised internationally as a legitimate treatment, but importing it has proven extremely difficult as it is listed under a section of the Drugs Act that effectively prohibits its entry into the country,” Jaleela said.

She further noted that the MFDA has made repeated efforts to resolve the matter, including formally requesting Parliament on 13 July to amend the Act which permits controlled medical use.

The MFDA emphasised the urgency of amending the law to ensure children with ADHD in the Maldives are not denied access to essential treatment.