The government has decided to lift the ban on methylphenidate, a key medication prescribed for persons with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

In its response to a letter from MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu) raising concerns about the ban, the President's Office said the Cabinet has reached an important decision to address the matter. 

The letter sent to Parliament, signed by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, states that after reviewing the National Drug Control Council's recommendations on the issue, the Cabinet decided last month to remove methylphenidate from the list of banned medications in Maldives. 

The President noted in the letter that parliamentary approval is needed before the banned medications list is amended, and appealed to the parliament to reach a decision on the removal of methylphenidate from the list.

Methylphenidate was banned in Maldives as it is included as a type of illegal drug under the Drugs Act. 

In August last year, Health Ministry and Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) were summoned to the parliament's Petition Committee over concerns of the medication not being available in the country. 

Methylphenidate is a scientifically approved medication to be used as first-line treatment for ADHD. However, Appendix I of the Drugs Act lists it as illegal for import into Maldives, and it is considered a prescription psychotropic substance which is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and addiction. 

The MDFA also appealed to parliament last year to remove the medication from the banned list.