Access to Methylphenidate, a medication used by people with ADHD, has been established today through a decree by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, following its removal from the prohibited list.

Regarding the prohibition of Methylphenidate in the Maldives, considered the most essential medication for those with ADHD, the President's Office responded to a letter sent to Parliament by the MP for Galolhu North constituency, Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu). The response stated that the Cabinet had made a significant decision to resolve the issue.

In the letter signed by President Muizzu and sent to Parliament, it was stated that following discussions in the Cabinet regarding the advice provided by the National Drug Control Council concerning this matter, the Cabinet decided last month to remove Methylphenidate from the list of prohibited drugs in Maldives.

In accordance with this, Parliament passed the removal of the ADHD medication from the prohibited list yesterday. Furthermore, the President's decree today has mandated that the medication be made available.

Methylphenidate is a scientifically proven medication used as a first-line treatment for ADHD.

However, it had been included in Schedule 1 of the Drugs Act under the list of items prohibited from being imported into the Maldives. Meanwhile, Schedule 2 of the Act contains narcotic drugs that can be used for medicinal purposes.

Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) also requested Parliament last year to remove the medication from that prohibited list.