Prescription changes coming from

1 February 2026

What’s changing?

The Government has announced from 1 February 2026, doctors and other prescribers will be able to write prescriptions for up to 12 months for some medicines, instead of the current 3‑month limit.

What does this mean?

  • Not everyone will automatically get a 12‑month prescription

  • Each practice will have their own prescribing policy based on what is clinically appropriate for their patients

  • Our practice policy is that most medications will only be prescribed for a maximum period of 6 months

  • People with complex health needs may still be asked to be come in every three months for an appointment

  • The decision sits with your GP, nurse practitioner, or nurse prescriber who will decide on a case-by-case basis depending on individual health needs

  • Your practitioner will discuss whether you’re suitable for a longer prescription at your next appointment

    Some medicines are excluded

  • The changes do not apply to all medications

  • Controlled drugs (eg opoids, some ADHD medications) will stay on the existing rules

  • Medicines that need regular monitoring may still require shorter prescribing periods

    You’ll still collect medication in 3 month lots from the pharmacy

  • Even with a 6 or 12‑month prescription pharmacies can only dispense up to 3 months’ supply at a time

  • Oral contraceptives may still be dispensed for up to 6 months at once

  • You’ll return to the pharmacy for repeats as usual — just without needing a new GP script each time

Te Whatu Ora have made changes that allow specialist GP's and Nurse Practitioners with additional training to diagnose and treat Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) for people aged 18 years an older.

While these changes are due to come into effect in February 2026, undertaking an ADHD assessment is a complicated process that requires certain conditions to be met. GP's and NP's are not expected to carry out ADHD assessments if they don't feel comfortable or do not have the necessary training.

Due to the complex nature of ADHD diagnosis, the Southside Health team of practitioners have made the decision that they will not be undertaking ADHD assessments at this time.

If you wish to be referred for an assessment, you will need to book an appointment with your practitioner to discuss the next steps.

Ongoing Prescribing

Once your diagnosis has been confirmed by a specialist and your specialist has recommended stimulant medication, your practitioner should be able to continue prescribing your medication.

It is vital that stimulant medications are monitored regularly and you will require regular face to face appointments with your practitioner if

  • you have other co-existing health conditions

  • are in the initial stages of prescribing

For more information see the attached information from the Ministry of Health

Changes to ADHD prescribing rules from 1 February 2026 | Ministry of Health NZ

If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to your practitioner.

We will update you with any changes that may occur on this matter in the future.

ADHD Diagnosis and Treatment Changes coming from

1st February 2026

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