Position Papers
WF ADHD Position Papers address important issues in ADHD research, treatment and health policy, providing evidence-based perspectives and recommendations from international experts.
Methylphenidate and the WHO List of Essential Medicines
WF ADHD Position Paper · November 2020
Methylphenidate has been used for decades and is widely recognised as an effective treatment for ADHD. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) has repeatedly declined to include it in its Model List of Essential Medicines for Children.
WF ADHD argues that these decisions do not adequately reflect the available evidence on the effectiveness and safety of methylphenidate. Its exclusion may restrict access to evidence-based ADHD treatment, particularly for children and families in low- and middle-income countries.
Application for inclusion of methylphenidate hydrochloride in the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines for Children, submitted for consideration by the 23rd Expert Committee on the Selection and Use of Essential Medicines.
Read the Application (PDF)