Generic Focalin XR

The earliest date that a generic version of Focalin XR could become available is in 2015, when the patent for Focalin XR expires. You should not buy any generic Focalin XR drug until an approved generic is available. Medicines currently sold as "generic Focalin XR" are fake, substandard, and potentially dangerous.

 

Generic Focalin XR: An Overview

Focalin XR® (dexmethylphenidate extended-release) is a prescription medication that has been licensed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). While Focalin XR is a stimulant, it has effects that are the opposite of what would be expected of a stimulant. While stimulants like caffeine can cause hyperactivity, Focalin XR has a calming effect.
 
Focalin XR is manufactured by Novartis Pharmaceuticals. The medicine is currently protected by a patent that prevents any generic Focalin XR from being manufactured. Yet, if you search the Internet for "generic Focalin XR," you may find a number of companies selling it. The fact is that these medicines are fake, substandard, and potentially dangerous. You should not buy any generic Focalin XR until there is an approved generic available.
 

When Will There Be a Generic Focalin XR?

The first patent for Focalin XR currently expires in 2015. This is the earliest date that a generic version of Focalin XR could become available. However, there are other circumstances that could come up to extend the exclusivity period of Focalin XR beyond 2015. These circumstances could include things such as other patents for specific Focalin XR uses or lawsuits. Once Focalin XR goes off patent, there may be several companies that manufacture a generic Focalin XR drug.
 

Is Dexmethylphenidate a Generic Focalin XR?

The answer is no. Dexmethylphenidate is the active ingredient in Focalin XR, but it is not a generic version of the drug. What can be confusing is that, oftentimes, the active ingredient of a drug is referred to as its "generic name." The generic name of a medicine is different than a generic version of it. In order for there to be a generic version of a medicine, the original medicine must have gone off patent and another company (besides the original manufacturer) must have made the product.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;