Hollywood film extra forced to quit job due to shortage of ADHD medication

04 February 2024 , 20:29

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Lee Cato has been taking Concerta for years (Image: No credit)

A former Hollywood extra says he was forced to quit his job, due to a nationwide shortage of ADHD medication.

Lee Cato, 48, who has been taking Concerta for years, hasn't been able to get his medicine or any alternatives for a month. The NHS says there's been a UK-wide shortage of medicine since December 2023 because of manufacturing problems and increased global demand.

Lee's ADHD medicine helps him manage symptoms like severe anxiety, body aches and irritability. The drug also allowed him to work several jobs, including as a film extra in big movies like 'Thor' and 'Edge of Tomorrow', and as a security guard. But the lack of medication meant he couldn't continue his "passion" as an extra and had to quit his weekend security guard job because of overwhelming symptoms.

Now unemployed, Lee - from Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire - said: "I can't access my ADHD medications - they're completely out-of-stock and it's been over a month now." He added: "Without my medication, I've been experiencing difficulties with concentration and controlling my impulses."

The former Hollywood extra says he was forced to quit his job (No credit)

He also said: "I'm unfortunately currently on benefits - because I can't maintain a normal life and keep a solid routine. My sleeping pattern is all over the place." He first noticed shortages of Concerta in December 2023 but was initially able to take Delmosart.

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The shortage of his medication has left him with headaches, nausea and tooth decay. He said: "For over a month, my chemist has tried to get hold of my medication, and failed. Concerta didn't have any side effects for me, and it was amazing." Despite the side effects of Delmosart, which include headaches, nausea, tooth erosion and a dry mouth, he continued taking them to maintain focus. But now, neither Concerta nor Delmosart is available.

According to Psychiatry UK, some local pharmacies are slowly restocking ADHD medications like Concerta, Delmosart and Elvanse. However, Lee remains doubtful. He expressed his frustration saying: "I feel extremely anxious - and starting to really feel like a guinea pig." He added: "It's incredibly frustrating - not knowing when I'll next be able to access medication in the future."

Hannah Van De Peer