President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has issued a presidential decree amending the Drugs Act to facilitate the availability of methylphenidate in the Maldives as a first-line treatment for Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). 

The amendment came into effect through Presidential Decree No. 10/2026 published in the Government Gazette. The amendment removes methylphenidate from the list of prohibited substances prescribed under Schedule I of the Drugs Act, allowing the medication to be legally made available in the Maldives for ADHD treatment.

The decision followed recommendations submitted by the National Drug Control Council and subsequent deliberations by the Cabinet. Following Cabinet approval, the proposal was forwarded to the People's Majlis in accordance with procedures outlined in the Drugs Act. Parliament later approved the removal of methylphenidate from the prohibited substances list during its sitting held this week.

Methylphenidate is internationally recognised as a first-line treatment for ADHD, a neurodevelopmental condition commonly diagnosed during childhood. Medical professionals have previously highlighted the importance of improving access to the medication for patients requiring treatment under medical supervision.