Pharmaceutical Supply Chains: A Structural Determinant of Health for Children With ADHD.

Abstract

Stimulant medications are a central component of management for youth with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and their access has been impacted by supply shortages since 2022. Disruptions to treatment can lead to increased morbidity and mortality for youth with ADHD. Factors that contribute to pharmaceutical supply chain shortages include surges in demand, reduced capacity for production or distribution, and failures in coordination. This paper provides an overview of the recent stimulant medication shortage and leverages a framework for building resilience in the supply chain to help pediatric health providers take action and improve health outcomes for for youth with ADHD and their families.