PBAC considers changes to PBS rules for two ADHD medicines
31 Aug 2026
The Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) will consider changes to the PBS arrangements for atomoxetine and guanfacine at its September 2026 meeting.
One proposal would allow subsidised treatment for patients who have tried stimulant medicines but tolerated them without achieving enough improvement.
The committee will also consider whether GPs and other eligible prescribers should be able to start these medicines without the current specialist-only initiation requirement.
At present, GPs can prescribe atomoxetine and guanfacine when treatment has first been started by a non-GP specialist. Associate Professor John Kramer, Chair of RACGP Specific Interests ADHD, said changing this requirement could give GPs greater flexibility to manage patients who may benefit from these medicines.
The review comes as demand for ADHD care continues to increase across Australia, with some patients facing long waits for assessment and treatment.
Data from a recent analysis showed that 2.36% of Australian adults were taking ADHD medicines in 2025, compared with 0.35% in 2016–17.
Hundreds of GPs have also completed training to assess and manage ADHD and initiate treatment.
South Australia recently announced support for another 100 GPs to complete specialised training in ADHD assessment, diagnosis, treatment and prescribing.
Associate Professor Kramer said broader access to PBS-subsidised atomoxetine and guanfacine could also help patients who may struggle to afford treatment when medicines are not subsidised.
PBAC considers changes to PBS rules for two ADHD medicines
Source: RACGP newsGP / Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC).