Focalin XR manages ADHD better than Concerta ER

A head-to-head study published in the June issue of Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology showed that Novartis' Focalin XR (dexmethylphenidate HCl) extended-release capsules offer greater improvements in managing attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder than Johnson & Johnson's Concerta (d,l-methylphenidate HCl) extended-release tablets at two hours post-dose, the primary study endpoint.

According to the Swiss drug major, Focalin XR 20mg and 30mg also demonstrated better symptom control versus Concerta 36mg and 54mg respectively, from 30 minutes to six hours. Symptom control was demonstrated as early as 30 minutes post-dose with Focalin XR 2mg and 30mg vs placebo. Neither dose of Concerta was effective vs placebo at 30 minutes. Novartis is seeking revised labeling to reflect the 30-minute onset of action.

Alice Mao, associate professor of psychiatry at the USA's Baylor College of Medicine, said that the "results of this study demonstrate the benefits of Focalin XR during the early part of the day, which may be better for children who need their medication to begin working before they leave for school and continue working throughout the day."