In short: South Africa has three main ADHD medicines: methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta and generics), lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse, Vyfocis) and atomoxetine (Strattera and generics). Generics can cut costs by half or more.
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This guide explains the ADHD medication available in South Africa: what each one is, how it works, common side effects and what it costs. It is educational — only your prescriber can decide what is right for you.
ADHD medication in South Africa at a glance
| Active ingredient | Type | Brands and generics | Price per pack (SEP) | Lasts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Methylphenidate (short-acting) | Stimulant, Schedule 6 | Ritalin 10mg; Adaphen, Methylphenidate Biotech, Methylphenidate HCl-Douglas | Ritalin R507; generics R131–R278 | 3–4 hours |
| Methylphenidate (modified-release) | Stimulant, Schedule 6 | Ritalin LA, Medikinet MR, Methycap LA, Aterocon LA, Adaphen XL | R261–R541 | About 8 hours |
| Methylphenidate (OROS extended-release) | Stimulant, Schedule 6 | Concerta 18/27/36/54mg; Meglarat PR | Concerta R1,213–R1,498; Meglarat R658 | 10–12 hours |
| Lisdexamfetamine | Stimulant, Schedule 6 | Vyvanse 30/50/70mg; Vyfocis | Vyvanse R1,113–R1,391; Vyfocis R780–R978 (retail, 30 caps) | Up to 13–14 hours |
| Atomoxetine | Non-stimulant | Strattera; Atteze, Stratex, Attencit, Inir, Atoxtrin | Strattera R1,341; generics R382–R481 | All day (builds over weeks) |
Prices are the regulated Single Exit Price (SEP) per pack from the Medicine Price Registry, viewed 31 October 2026, unless stated otherwise. Pharmacies may add a regulated dispensing fee. Pack sizes differ — check the price per tablet with your pharmacist.
Stimulants: methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine
Stimulants increase the availability of dopamine and noradrenaline in the brain, which can improve attention, impulse control and focus. They work within an hour. Read more: Ritalin, Concerta, Vyvanse.
Non-stimulant: atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. It is not a controlled substance and takes several weeks to reach full effect. Read more: Strattera and atomoxetine generics.
Common side effects
Common side effects of stimulants include reduced appetite, difficulty sleeping, headaches, stomach aches, raised heart rate and blood pressure, irritability and a “crash” as the dose wears off. Prescribers usually monitor weight, heart rate and blood pressure. Always read the package insert and report side effects to your prescriber.
How to get ADHD medication in South Africa
- See a GP, who can refer you if needed.
- A psychiatrist (adults) or paediatrician/child psychiatrist (children) confirms the diagnosis and prescribes. In many cases stimulants are initiated by a specialist.
- Methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine are Schedule 6: they need an original written prescription, which is valid for 30 days and cannot be repeated.
- Fill it at a pharmacy; ask for a generic to save money.
- Apply for chronic registration with your medical aid if your plan covers ADHD — see does medical aid cover ADHD?
Is there medication for autism?
No medication treats autism itself. Doctors may treat co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, sleep problems, ADHD or severe irritability. Discuss options with a psychiatrist.
Sources & further reading
- Medicine Price Registry SEP data via medicineprices.org.za
- NHS — Medication for ADHD
- NICE NG87 — ADHD diagnosis and management
- SAHPRA — package inserts and medicine information
Last checked: 31 October 2026. If you spot something out of date, tell us.