Generic Ritalin LA

Because it is still protected by a patent, there are currently no generic Ritalin LA products available. Unless circumstances arise to extend the exclusivity period of the drug, the patent is set to expire in 2015. Once the medication goes off-patent, several companies are expected to begin manufacturing it. As with the brand-name version, generic Ritalin LA is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children.

 

Generic Ritalin LA: An Overview

Ritalin LA® (methylphenidate extended-release) is a prescription medication that has been licensed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The drug is a stimulant, although it has effects that are opposite from what would be expected of a stimulant. While stimulants (like caffeine) can cause hyperactivity, Ritalin LA has a calming effect in the doses used to treat ADHD.
 
The medication is manufactured by Novartis Pharmaceuticals and is currently protected by a patent that prevents any generic Ritalin LA from being manufactured. Yet, if you search the Internet for "generic Ritalin LA," 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 Ritalin LA until there is an approved generic version available.
 

When Will There Be a Generic Ritalin LA?

The first patent for Ritalin LA currently expires in 2015. This is the earliest date that a generic version of the drug could become available. However, other circumstances could come up to extend the exclusivity period beyond this time. This could include such things as other patents for specific Ritalin LA uses or lawsuits. Once the patent expires, several companies will likely begin manufacturing a generic version of the drug.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;