Having trouble receiving the authorized generic Concerta medication for ADHD — again? Well, you’re in the right place.
Most of the information in this post won’t help you to get Concerta now. But it does explain the background around Concerta and its generics since 2014.
Two Major Updates – 12/5/22 03/21/23
1. Janssen has stopped the authorized generic.
The official cut-off date was 1/13/23. But the last supplies had mostly been distributed weeks before, according to a Janssen representative. You might still find pockets of availability. At least for a while.
2. I am re-leading the effort to downgrade these generics – FDA Medwatch
These generics are nothing like Concerta. That makes a world of difference for untold numbers of people currently relying on Concerta to function. They were FDA-approved over the objections of FDA scientists, due to concerns about bioequivalence.
These generics (that I describe in this post, originating in 2017) come to us courtesy of Big Generic and Trump’s FDA Chief.
Robert Gottlieb, MD, was and is a venture capitalist who has a medical degree.
Previous to his short FDA stint (2017-2019), he had long harangued against FDA regulations for complex delivery-system medications (e.g. Concerta’s). Shortly before Trump slotted him at the FDA, he was at the American Enterprise Institute and on the board of a vaping company. (Vaping Venture Poses Potential Conflict for Trump’s FDA Nominee).
That was 2017. It’s now 2023. With high hopes that decent people can again help right these wrongs,. I am re-launching the effort to downgrade these indecent generics.
Please go to this link (FDA Medwatch) to state any adverse experience with any of the Concerta generics (you’ll find the list of companies below). If you’ve thrown away the bottle, try to get the info from your pharmacy.
It probably won’t be helpful to provide a lot number, though. This is not a manufacturing problem. This is a exploitative Big Generic problem, which is unfortunately consistent lot to lot.
The rest of this post might still be useful to you, insofar as understanding the difference between Concerta, its authorized-generic (gone 1/13/23), and its other generics. But please know that the recommended method of getting the authorized-generic (brand sold at a generic price) is no longer relevant. For now. Things could change. Stay tuned!
Please Support This Reader Service
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- Since 2014, I’ve taken the lead in first successfully lobbying the FDA to downgrade the first two inferior generics and, since 2017, guiding readers on procuring the authorized generic. Others might “borrow” my work. But I put in the legwork.
- For 20 years, I’ve accepted no pharmaceutical funding or support of any type. That includes from the makers/sellers of Concerta!
- That makes me one of the very few ADHD “names” rejecting pharma support. Specifically, the quid pro quo kind that the major pharmaceutical funder of ADHD “advocacy” requires. It’s called a conflict of interest.
- You might be shocked at the covert ways in which this is playing out with that one particular pharma.
- I minimize advertising — because it’s too distracting!
- If my self-funded work has saved you thousands of dollars and much consternation, please consider a donation of any amount via Paypal — or Venmo. You can also shop via my Amazon link to right—and support this blog cost-free to you! Thank you!
Quick Summary Points on Concerta Generics:
As the first and only person to cover — and advocate on — this issue in-depth since 2014, I can tell you:
- I aim for simplicity. But if I cut details—sure enough, comments will ask for them! So, I happily risk Google docking this post for “too long.” (It favors short and superficial!) And I try to keep it well-organized and scannable.
- This slew of cheap generics (in price and content) has sent pharmacies and insurance companies scrambling—only intensified by COVID demands..
- Concerta pills use a patented delivery system (Alza’s OROS). It’s what makes Concerta distinct from the other methylphenidate-class choices.
- The authorized-generic is the brand; it’s only marketed as a generic. The other Concerta generics are mostly “bare bones”—little different than a generic Ritalin.
- If you’re confused about generic versus authorized-generic, you’ll find the details below.
- Much depends on your particular insurance pharmacy benefit. Even within the same insurance provider (e.g. Blue Shield) different policies bring different benefits.
- Don’t count on the average prescriber understanding this issue. But do offer a link to this blog post—or print relevant info and provide.
- If you have a home-delivery pharmacy with one of the big warehouse pharmacies (e.g. Express Scripts), that might be your best bet. Seriously. See Home Delivery of Stimulant Medications
- It might be that one of these generics suits you better than Concerta. That isn’t the issue.
- What is the issue? These generics do not perform as brand Concerta does. That’s a big problem for people who respond best to Concerta’s sophisticated delivery system (OROS).
- If you participate in an ADHD-related forum or another type of group, please share the link to this blog post. I’m seeing sites repeat tidbits from this original reporting. But it’s out of context and without updates—and therefore unhelpful and also violating copyright.
In This Post on Authorized-Generic Concerta:
Again, December 2022 had us in a rapidly changing situation. We were waiting for the year-end supply issues to resolve AND waiting to see if Concerta manufacturer Janssen would continue making the medication available as a brand.
Again, that means any information about obtaining the authorized-generic is outdated. Still, you might find this background illuminating.
- Your best options now — overview
- How to specify the authorized-generic for Concerta on the prescription – step by step
- Consider home-delivery pharmacy, if you have that benefit (yes, it’s legal for stimulants!) — please know there’s a difference between a local pharmacy that delivers to your home and a “home-delivery pharmacy” (e.g. Express Scripts, PrimeMail, etc.) These large warehouses typically are more likely to have the authorized generic and allow 60- or 90-day supplies. So much easier!
- Consider brand; there’s a Concerta coupon now
- Background: How this clown car of Concerta generics burst onto the scene
- Whatever happened to the “Actavis” generic?
- Now — Concerta generics from at least ten companies!
- Still confused about generic vs authorized generic?
- Consider filing an FDA Medwatch Complaint. This is not the FDA’s fault. Please don’t blame “government.” This was a cynical, profitable move by the previous administration’s FDA Chief—a huge gift to “Big Generic”
1. Your Best Options Now — Detailed
Here’s an overview of the best current strategies. You’ll find more details about how the script should read in the next section.
—Aim for Authorized Generic (from Patriot Pharmaceuticals)
This involves getting your prescriber’s cooperation, detailed below (Specifying Authorized Generic Concerta).
Tips:
- Do not ask the store if it carries the authorized generic. Keeping a medication in stock and ordering it are two very different things.
- If the pharmacy says it cannot fill your prescription, ask that an Exception Process be ordered for you. (This is working less reliably now than it did initially but it’s worth a shot.)
- Still trouble? Call Janssen 1-800-631-5273. Ask for its subsidiary, Patriot.
- The representative can sometimes intercede with a pharmacy.
- The list of pharmacies said to be carrying the Patriot generic might or might not be helpful.
- Just because a pharmacy carried it one point doesn’t mean it is now. Moreover, it doesn’t mean that your particular insurance coverage will qualify you for it.
—Patriot Pharmaceuticals: Authorized Generics ONLY
Just in case Patriot website visitors also don’t understand the term authorized generic, it says this:
Patriot Pharmaceutical Generics are authorized for sale to trade customers by the NDA holder of the innovator product. [Note: NDA stands for New Drug Application. It the vehicle through which a company proposes that the FDA approve a new pharmaceutical for sale and marketing in the U.S.. Not a new generic of an existing brand, a new pharmaceutical altogether.]
The entire Patriot family of products is made by the same manufacturers that are approved in the NDAs of the innovator products.
The same qualities you relied on in the innovator pharmaceutical products during their branded lifecycle are now available in Patriot’s authorized generic line of products. [A branded life cycle means “before the patent expires”.]
—Check out the new Concerta Savings Card
If you can swing the brand Concerta, that makes things much easier! Check the savings-terms at the link. It works with your insurance. Note: Does not apply in MA or CA.
—Try another stimulant option
There are many choices within the methylphenidate category, including Ritalin, Daytrana, Aptensio XR, Metadate CD, Methylin, Quillivant XR, Jornay PM, Adhansia XR, Cotempla, etc..
One of these might work better for you than Concerta. Or they all might be worse. For the most part, you just don’t know until you try.
To be clear: These all contain the same active ingredient, methylphenidate (MPH). The only difference is in how it’s delivered to the system (how much, how quickly, etc.). But that can be a huge difference.
2. Specifying Authorized-Generic Concerta
Share this information with your prescriber for your next prescription. It should help to specify the authorized-generic Concerta on your next prescription. Here’s the short version, followed by the details:
- Name: Methylphenidate HCl Extended-release tablets
- NDC Number: for example: 10147-0685-1
- Specify distributor: Patriot only
- How it might read overall (example): Methylphenidate HCl Extended-release tablets, 36 mg, NDC 10147-0686-1 ONLY (or, simply Patriot generic only)
- A special note for electronic subscriptions: Sometimes the prescriber will specify all this in the electronic prescription—but it’s not visible to the pharmacy. Ask the pharmacy to look for the special instructions box or to print the prescription; that typically reveals full instructions.
- Always provide the information specifically to your prescriber. Each time. Some prescribers tell me they cannot see what they wrote for a previous prescription when they go to write the next one. Make their job easier—and ensure your success in getting the right Rx.
- The “no substitutions” box. This is tricky. See more details below.
- Check the pills before you pay for them!
How long will this information remain useful? It’s anybody’s guess. Subscribe to stay tuned — and check back often.
Here’s more details on the 5 steps above. I accessed this information from the U.S. National Library of Medicine “Daily Med” website.
—Name:
Methylphenidate HCl Extended-release tablets
NOTE! You cannot rely solely on the name. All the Concerta generics (including the authorized generic) share this name!
—NDC Number:
Each FDA-approved medication is assigned a code, the NDC (National Drug Code). Here are the numbers for Concerta’s authorized generic (the last two numbers vary by dosage):
- 10147-0685-1 – 18 mg
- 10147-0688-1 – 27 mg
- 10147-0686-1 – 36 mg
- 10147-0687-1 – 54 mg
My advice is: Ask your prescriber to specify the NDC number and “Patriot generic only.” At least the first time. It might be unnecessary after that.
Note: If your pharmacy says that number is not coming up in their database, they might instead find the 11-digit billing code.
For example, the 36 mg replaces one hyphen with a zero. That is, NDC 10147-0686-1 has a billing code of NDC 10147068601. For the full details, click here: NDC 10147-0686-1 METHYLPHENIDATE HYDROCHLORIDE.
—Distributor: Patriot
What if the pharmacy tells you, “But we can’t find that”? or “It’s on back order”?
Maybe the store or chain simply doesn’t want to order it for you.
To check, call the Patriot Pharmaceuticals customer service at 215-325-7676
—How Should The Prescription Read Exactly?
No ironclad answers here. Your prescriber might have a preference. The pharmacy might, too. Tip: Try to get a straight answer from the pharmacy before speaking with your physician.
In the best of all possible worlds, the script need only contain the name of the drug! But again, in the case of Concerta generics, they are ALL called Methylphenidate Hydrochloride (HCI) Extended-release tablets. That makes it critical to establish which one.
As the issue first emerged, the prescription should have read something like this (for example, for the 36 mg dose):
Methylphenidate HCl Extended-release tablets, 36 mg, NDC 10147-0686-1 ONLY (or Patriot generic only)
The “ONLY” at the end indicates, “do not substitute with another generic.”
Now that the Patriot generic is more familiar to pharmacists, adding the NDC might be overkill.
Note: Some readers report that their pill bottles exclude the HCl (which stands for hydrochloride). If the pills say “alza,” don’t worry about it.
—Tricky Bit #1: Generic substitution laws vary by state.
Your prescriber must pay attention to the prescription pad checkbox that indicates “no substitutions” or “dispense as written”.
If that is checked, pharmacists typically take that to mean, “Do not substitute a generic.” That means you might get brand—at brand prices.
But what happens when the prescriber checks that box AND specifies a generic but uses the name of the brand (Concerta) instead of Methylphenidate HCI, etc. ? Anything can happen! That’s why you might follow my suggestion above. But again, ask your pharmacist first!
If you use a home-delivery pharmacy, consider attaching a note to the paper order form detailing clearly your request.
See Tip: Home Delivery of Prescribed Stimulant Medications
—Tricky Bit #2: Some generics utilize a different type of osmotic technology.
But that is not the same as Alza’s patented OROS (osmotic-controlled release oral delivery system). Many pharmacists do not know this! You might need to tell them! (But don’t count on them believing you.)
—Look Before You Pay!
What Should The Pills Look Like? Look for alza 18, 27, 36, 54 etc
Look before you pay!
The pills should look exactly the same as the brand—because they are the brand. It’s easy. Look for the word alza on the pill. Not there? Then it’s not Concerta brand or authorized generic. Simple as that!
—Must the Pharmacy Fill the Prescription As Written?
It depends on your state laws. Again, check this article in U.S. Pharmacist: Generic-Substitution Laws
—What Should The Label Look Like?
Before you leave the pharmacy or open a home-delivery bottle, look for the label. It should say Patriot Pharmaceuticals.
Do not pay for the prescription until you check the label and the pills themselves. The Concerta brand/authorized-generic should look like the pills in the photo above. You can typically see this through the semi-translucent brown bottles.
3. Investigate Home-Delivery of Concerta
Does your insurance pharmacy benefit include a home-delivery pharmacy? If so, consider using it!
Again, home-delivery pharmacies typically have bigger inventory. Plus, you might be able to get a 60- or 90-day supply. Imagine enduring this misery only 6 or 4 times annually—instead of 12 times!
Yes, this is legal! Read more here: Tip: Home Delivery of Prescribed Stimulant Medications
4. Consider Brand Concerta Or Coverage Exception
Don’t forget to look into brand. Janssen is making brand Concerta more accessible in some ways, including a savings card.
- Check your pharmacy benefit’s cost for brand Concerta
- See if you qualify for Concerta’s savings program
- Check out savings from GoodRx
Have you already tried one of the inferior generics, to poor effect? You might ask your pharmacy-benefits-manager about pre-authorization or “medical coverage exception.” This is where your prescriber documents your previous experience and why you need the brand.
5. Background: Why This Clown Car of Concerta Generics?
When the first three Concerta genetics arrived, I started hearing from readers. Lives were going off the rails — too many to attribute to personal issues. Something larger was going on. I shared some of their stories here: Sound Off – Users of Downgraded Concerta Generics
What does “downgraded Concerta generics” mean? It means that I spoke with the FDA and, following the helpful representative’s suggestion, opened a formal MedWatch Complaint. Then, readers followed through on reporting their adverse experiences on these generics. The FDA came through for us in 2014: Victory! Concerta Generics Downgraded
Unfortunately, the new administration that moved into the White House had other plans. Donald Trump named a a new FDA chief, Scott Gottlieb, MD. He was and is now, having left the FDA a short time later, a fellow at the conservative American Enterprise Institute. He over-rode FDA scientists’ longheld concerns about bioequivalence. That is, do these generics work as well as the brand versions?
This is especially critical when it comes to novel delivery systems, such as Concerta’s OROS, patented technology from Alza. That’s why the FDA downgraded the original three generics. FDA scientists were pushing for new guidelines.
Next thing we know: A clown car of non-bioequivalent Concerta generics flooded the market. Pharmacies and insurance companies have been log-rolling in response this enormously unexpected change. But one thing’s for certain: This been a huge gift to “Big Generic.” (Check the end of this post for links to my various posts on that topic.)
Reader comments sometimes blame the “government” or the FDA for this. That’s a mistake. We can lay this outrageous situation squarely at the feet of one administration. (Don’t like me “bringing politics into it”? Sorry, these are the facts, and facts still matter.)
This turnabout came as a stunning disappointment to Concerta users. We thought that hard-won war was over.
Fortunately for consumers, Janssen continues to make available the authorized-generic Concerta. But the landscape continues to shift.
6. Previously: Concerta Brand and Actavis Generic
Many years ago, Concerta users became accustomed to receiving the authorized generic. That is the brand marketed as a generic, at generic pricing. It was marketed by a company called Actavis.
How did this come about? Concerta manufacturer Janssen made this deal to forestall Actavis introducing its own Concerta generic. That marketing agreement expired several years ago. A generic manufacturer named Teva later purchased Actavis. Then it released its own Concerta generic.
Shortly after, Concerta manufacturer Janssen made the authorized generic available through a subsidiary, Patriot Pharmaceuticals. For more than a year, largely thanks to my guidance, Concerta users were able to ask their pharmacy to order the Patriot authorized generic via an “exception process” (explained below).
A few drugstores reliably honored the request, even if it meant losing money. Walgreen’s was a particularly good “corporate citizen.” But obviously, Walgreen’s could not continue taking such a financial hit, compounded by COVID. If you’ve been getting the authorized-generic from an independent pharmacy, it’s might have lost money providing it.
For the most part, these generics resemble generics of Ritalin or Ritalin LA. These brand drugs already lack Concerta’s sophisticated delivery system. So you can imagine how little they resemble Concerta. They perhaps cost pennies to make, in China or India. In factories increasingly shown to be poorly regulated.
By contrast, brand Concerta uses a proprietary technology, OROS™, from a company called Alza. FDA guidelines on producing brand drugs are highly controlled. The medication (methylphenidate) is released at a steadily ascending rate. With the generics, it tends to be uneven, in jumps, starts, and stalls—with a fast drop-off.
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7. Still Confused by Generic vs. Authorized Generic?
If you remain confused about generic vs. authorized generic and the historical changes, you might find the following information useful.
- If you’re still asking for Actavis/Teva, you risk an unpleasant surprise.
- The authorized generic is the brand; it’s simply sold as a generic. See how to request it above.
- The authorized generic (brand marketed and sold at generic prices) is now distributed by Patriot Pharmaceuticals, a subsidiary of Janssen, Concerta’s manufacturer.
- Look for the infographic below.
- Consider getting the brand until the dust settles, if it’s affordable (remember the new savings program at Concerta’s website). Or, try one of the other brand methylphenidate medications
- Always look before you pay! If the pill does not say alza, it’s not Concerta (brand or authorized-generic). Simple!
Again: What’s An Authorized Generic?
I understand the confusion. Even many pharmacists and physicians can’t tell you the difference. Even worse, many also insist that regular generic medications are “exactly the same” as brand. They are not. Consumer beware.
I’ve covered it before (again, the roundup of blog posts) but here are the basics:
1. Authorized generic:
The authorized generic is the brand. It’s only marketed and sold as a generic.
This typically happens when a brand drug patent nears expiration. Another company strikes a deal with the brand manufacturer: “We’ll delay introducing our regular generic if you agree to let us sell your brand as a generic.”
As mentioned above, that’s what happened with Concerta several years ago. The manufacturer, Jannsen, agreed to let a company named Watson sell its brand Concerta as an authorized generic. As time went on, Watson became Actavis and Teva purchased Actavis. In the past, the prescriber could specify on the prescription: “authorized generic Concerta/Watson, etc.”—or simply OROS.
OROS™ is Concerta’s patented extended-release technology. It is owned by a company called Alza and licensed by Janssen in making Concerta. (The osmotic-controlled release oral delivery system, OROS, takes the form of a rigid tablet with a semi-permeable outer membrane and one or more small laser-drilled holes in it.)
Since then, for a variety of reasons, it’s gotten more challenging. Pharmacies are consolidating and are less “consumer-oriented.” Some of the new generics use other osmotic technology. As a result, some pharmacists mistake “osmotic technology” for the proprietary OROS™ from Alza.
2. True generic:
This is what most of us regard as a generic medication. It’s a cheaper alternative to a brand medication. It is made by a different company, not the brand’s manufacturer.
Even though it is often claimed to be “exactly the same” as the brand, it is not. In some cases, this matters little. When it comes to sophisticated delivery-system drugs, it can matter a lot.
Unfortunately, pharmacy insurance benefits increasingly force consumers to accept these generics or pay a very high cost for the brand.
For more details, read Consumer Q&A on Concerta Generics
8. Now Concerta Generics From At Least Ten Companies
Over the last two years, the situation has grown even more confusing. At least seven companies released Concerta generics since July 2017 [Note: there are even more now, in 2021]:
- Manufacturer: ACTAVIS LABS FL
Approval date: March 21, 2018
Strength(s): 54MG [AB] - Manufacturer: ACTAVIS LABS FL
Approval date: March 22, 2018
Strength(s): 18MG [AB], 27MG [AB], 36MG [AB]
NOTE: Actavis used to be the distributor for the authorized generic Concerta; now it has its own generic. - Manufacturer: ALVOGEN PINE BROOK
Approval date: November 30, 2018
Strength(s): 18MG [AB], 27MG [AB], 36MG [AB], 54MG [AB] - Manufacturer: AMNEAL PHARMS
Approval date: February 1, 2018
Strength(s): 18MG [AB], 27MG [AB], 36MG [AB], 54MG [AB] - Manufacturer: ANDOR PHARMS
Approval date: April 24, 2019
Strength(s): 18MG [AB], 27MG [AB], 36MG [AB], 54MG [AB] - Manufacturer: ANI PHARMS INC
Approval date: July 14, 2017
Strength(s): 18MG [AB], 27MG [AB], 36MG [AB], 54MG [AB] - Manufacturer: MYLAN
Approval date: October 21, 2016
Strength(s): 18MG [AB], 27MG [AB], 36MG [AB], 54MG [AB] - Manufacturer: OSMOTICA
Approval date: July 28, 2017
Strength(s): 18MG [AB], 27MG [AB], 36MG [AB], 54MG [AB] - Manufacturer: PAR PHARM
Approval date: July 15, 2019
Strength(s): 36MG [AB], 54MG [AB] - Manufacturer: ASCENT PHARMS INC
Approval date: September 3, 2019
Strength(s): 18MG [AB], 27MG [AB], 36MG [AB], 54MG [AB ]
NOTE: The Ascent generic (distributed by Camber) uses a barrel-shaped pill. It seems designed to fool consumers/physicians/pharmacists that this generic uses OROS. It does not.
9. Consider Filing an FDA MedWatch Complaint
To be frank, it’s going to be much harder to reverse this horrible decision by the Trump White House’s FDA Chief Gottlieb. He left after about 17 months, back to the rightwing think tank, the American Enterprise Institute. It would take a cataclysmic event to reverse this decision. And they all knew it.
Still, it’s worth putting it on record. As I mentioned, the FDA in 2014 was incredibly responsive to our complaints about the first two Concerta generics. Then a new White House occupant moved in.
If you have tried one of these true generics and found it significantly inferior to brand/authorized-generic Concerta, please consider filing a MedWatch complaint with the FDA. You can download a PDF or file directly online. Click here to go directly to the FDA Medwatch form.
Summary—Whew!
For sure, this is a lot to take in! (Guess what! It was a lot for me to research and write, too—and constantly re-write—not to mention field 100s of reader questions.)
I hope these quick points clarify things for you. If not, leave a question in the comments section. Readers who have followed my suggestions precisely seem to have a higher success rate.
Many argue that without that delivery system, it cannot be a reasonable substitute for brand Concerta. FDA scientists agreed with them. That’s how my blog readers played a critical role in lobbying the FDA to reassess the first two Concerta generics. The FDA downgraded them as not being close enough to Concerta. Then another White House forced a change.
Here is my report on that issue: Consumer Q&A on Generic Concerta
The first version of this post appeared 6/19/19 but my reporting on Concerta generics began in 2014!
I answer all questions as quickly as possible.
Gina Pera
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I just got a call from my pharmacist that Patriot is no longer making their authorized generic Concerta. I checked their website, and it says “Note: Methylphenidate HCl ER Tablets have been discontinued and are no longer available.” Do you know if someone else is making them now? We have used this exclusively for years and don’t want to go to other “generics” and would rather not pay the extra brand name cost. Thanks!
Hi Katie,
I’m sorry you didn’t find my blog last fall. I announced that Janssen was eliminating its Patiot authorized-generic.
https://adhdrollercoaster.org/adhd-news-and-research/janssen-bombshell-ends-concerta-authorized-generic/
It’s important to understand: the Patriot authorized-generic IS THE BRAND. It’s only sold as a generic.
So, in order for another company to make the authorized-generic, they’d have to make the brand.
I don’t see that happening, but I suppose it is possible. If it is ever announced, you will probably read about it here at my ADHD Roller Coaster blog.
Gina
No, no other company has announced plans to take over manufacture of Concerta from Janssen.
Hi Gina, Thank you for all your work on this. My question is if you have ever heard of an insurance charging a penalty for using the name brand? We have been able to jump through all the hoops before us to get an approval for a medical necessity to use the brand name only. Which we were able to use one time for $165/30 days. The next month they charged $800. I was told due to deductible not being met. This month again, they wanted $800. However, this time, they informed me that they are charging me a $635 penalty for using the name brand. Even though they have an approval for the medical necessity. I feel like this should not be legal to do and was wondering if anyone else has experienced this?
Hi Kathy,
You’re welcome!
It’s quite dizzying, all the permutations on insurance policies. Consumers have more choices but it does complicated things!
It really pays to get familiar with the exact terms of your policy. There’s typically a summary on the website.
Do you know if the exception process was granted just for those 30 days or was it longer? If not longer, maybe that’s why you’re being penalized.
My understanding is that, if the exception process is approved, you’re charged the brand formulary cost of your policy. Sometimes this is called a “prior authorization”, though terms will vary.
What you’re describing doesn’t sound like a deductible issue, not if the first go-round was covered. Unless that was in 2022.
good luck
g
It VERY much seems like you got an ’emergency exemption’ for the first month, after that, they have allowed you to get the name brand, but you are STILL responsible for your deductible, period. Nor do you seem to have an ongoing authorization.
I have a high deductible plan myself (which we knocked out this year with my fiancé’s new insulin pump in February). Anyway, I did the legwork with my insurance, and got a PRIOR AUTHORIZATION (not ’emergency exemption’; as that only applies to a VERY short term, think hurricane, or natural disaster, or you had a fire, ect.) for name brand.
My prior authorization is valid (provided I don’t change insurance companies) until 2039. (the pharmacist actually laughed).
That being said, each year, I STILL have to meet my $3k deductible before I can pay just the Tier 3 rate, so each year I am paying OOP for the first few months. As will you, and anyone else who has a plan with a deductible until your deductible is met.
Anyone know when a new approved generic for concerta with oros release will be available now that patriot is no longer available? What are you guys using now? Or will I be requesting emergency exceptions for brand name concerta 3-minths at a time until forever?
Hi Betty,
I encourage you to read my latest post. I linked to it at the beginning of this post, but here it is: https://adhdrollercoaster.org/adhd-news-and-research/janssen-bombshell-ends-concerta-authorized-generic/
As the author of these blog posts, I work to bring you the most accurate information available. I do not recommend asking random readers for specific information such as this. They might be wrong.
Short answer to your question: There is no talk of a “new approved generic” for Concerta with OROS. Not while the brand is still available. The authorized-generic (the brand marketed as a generic) was a special situation.
Ask your insurance company if they can extend your exception for a year. That wouldn’t be an “emergency” exception, though.
good luck
Gina
thank you so much for putting this together. I’ve filed a complaint with FDA since all the generics except patriot are so bad… the situation is crazy
Thanks, Adam. We did it in 2016. But there are 10x the “Big Generic” products now. Thanks for filing the complaint!
g
Don’t believe I’ve seen this addressed before, although it’s possible I missed it. Would like your opinion Gina, (and readers) on how long Concerta is considered safe and effective? My son refused to take his Authorized Generic meds (on and off) for a period of about 2 years. Consequently, I have a bunch of the “good stuff” saved up, and am hoping it is ok to give him now that he’s willing to resume his meds. Seems inconceivable to waste these pills, especially now that they are so hard to obtain. I know that most prescription meds have a “USE BEFORE” date of one year after the prescription is written. But it seems ridiculous that the med would suddenly become ineffective and/or dangerous to take on day 366. I understand that the FDA requires all meds to have an “Expiration Date”, which at times can seem somewhat random. In the case of Concerta, with its unique 3 layer composition of “solid” substances, it seems that it should theoretically be ok indefinitely, as long as it’s not been exposed to liquid or extreme temps. Your thoughts?
Hi Ann,
I can’t possibly say but my hunch—and everything I’ve read on the topic— is that they will be fine.
Much depends on how they were stored but the proof will be in the pudding — how they work.
Of course, if they did not work well for your son before, they won’t now, either.
good luck,
g
Anyone having any luck getting brand Concerta? All the pharmacies by me are saying they have been out of stock and that it’s backordered for ages. I had commented in the past and can’t take the other generics, had an awful response to them.
I have had good luck getting it at Kroger (in Nashville).
Hi Jamie,
Please read my latest post on Concerta. It contains tips on what you can try now.
For example, I don’t recommend exhausting yourself with local pharmacies. See if your insurance benefit includes a home-delivery pharmacy.
And, since you had a poor response to the generics, you might want to get cracking on filing an exception form, with your MD.
Instructions in the post:
https://adhdrollercoaster.org/adhd-news-and-research/janssen-bombshell-ends-concerta-authorized-generic/
good luck,
Gina
Well I’m in this mess here as a longtime user of Concerta ALZA 36 for a head injury.. In reading these boards, I see steer clear of CVS, try other pharmacies. We have Caremark Insurance. What influence if any will that have with Walgreen’s for example?
Gina your website was a saving grace when unbeknownst to me I was given a concerta substitute in 8/18. The pill looked the same but my family noticed a deterioration in my functioning. Mercifully i had saved one pill from the prior batch and it had ALZA on it. The substitute did not. When I googled this dilemma, your website popped up -just the exact info and support group I needed.Going forward, My neurologist took great care to write name brand only on all subsequent scripts. The last copay was 150/3 months. Seemed something up since previously 25/3 months. This time I was told I couldn’t have concerta because I hadn’t tried a generic. So I need to try a generic , have it fail and then go back to concerta with oros delivery that says alza. Please clarify that I read the oros delivery system might be eliminated. I’ve been getting confused with info overload. Thanks for your help.
Hi Judy,
Yes, the price has gone up for most Concerta users.
Yes, the dramatic situation created by “Big Generic” is making it much harder to get brand Concerta.
No, there is no stated plan to eliminate Concerta. But anything is possible going forward.
I explain most of this in this post. Did you see it? I linked to it from the beginning of this post, where you are commenting.
https://adhdrollercoaster.org/adhd-news-and-research/janssen-bombshell-ends-concerta-authorized-generic/
It might be that the generic you got in 8/18 would qualify as one of the “use tries.” If your MD documented your family’s poor response to that generic in case notes, that can probably be added to the exception form. If your MD did not document it, remind them. In writing.
good luck
Gina
Does anyone know of any health insurance provider in the US that will cover named brand concerta at least 50%??
Can’t find it anywhere. I think United health care is the only one but its need to be an HMO, through an employer. My employer has Florida Blue and the denied my appeal. This is all so crazy.
Any updates would be great. $1200 for a 3 month supply out of pocket is insane!!
Hi Zach,
You’re right. It’s all insane.
Health insurance providers tend to provide different things, at different prices.
For example, employer-sponsored insurance terms are decided by the employer. Even with the same insurance company, there can be extremely different benefits.
But maybe readers will have a suggestion for you.
My suggestion in the meantime is this:
1. Get the formulary list from your pharmacy-benefit manager.
2. See if any MPH (methylphenidate) brands are covered….e.g. Daytrana, Quillivant, Quillichew, etc..
3. See which MPH generics are covered.
4. Start trying alternates.
good luck,
g
I have anthem blue cross blue shield PPO and after fighting a bit, with the script sent in by his physician stating that the generics available are not authorized generic with the same delivery system as name brand, patient unable to take due to adverse effects. They covered it! It cost me $8.00 out of pocket. I’m still shocked and have a feeling I am going to have to continue to fight for the same result. Not sure if that helps or not.
Wow, Kristi. You lucked out!
Good for you,
g
I have Blue cross PPO employer provided insurance and they are allowing prior authorization approval for brand because of the shortage. Now mine still cost $120 a month with the approval, but I was calling 20+ pharmacies a day to find out no one had anything, brand or generic.
Maybe your insurance has an exception policy due to the shortage…
After 2 denied prior authorizations, we were approved on appeal. We have a Blue Cross administered through Express Scripts. The appeal focused on concerns specifically about switching from one methylphenidate ER formulation to another. It was detailed with regulatory and scientific references, that I think are pretty difficult to reason against (not that insurance is reasonable, perhaps we just got lucky 3rd time around). For many of the reasons articulated by Gina, it is probably healthier to work through the bureaucracy to get coverage for the brand than to experiment with a switch. Of course, that takes time and it still ends up costing more than just generic. The headline of our argument is as follows. Hope this helps others.
• The sensitivity of ADHD / methylphenidate treated patients to PK profile is such that the UK health authority has issued a recent (2022) alert related to switching methylphenidate formulations: (Quote
from link: Methylphenidate long-acting (modified-release) preparations: caution if switching between products due to differences in formulations| GovWire News:)
“….caution should be used if long-acting formulations of methylphenidate are to be used interchangeably due to the differences between formulations in dosing frequency, administration with food, amount and timing of the modified-release component, and overall clinical effect” …..
“Once a patient is established on a product, prescribers may wish to maintain them on that specific product.”
Oh wow, Robert. That’s so helpful. Thank you!
Last I heard about UK NHS and these generics, it was proudly announcing how many more people it could treat with the cost-savings. I’m glad to see some back-pedaling.
g
Thanks for all the helpful information. It has helped me out in the past few years. I just found out today that patriot pharmaceuticals no longer exists. I don’t know the specifics. The representative was very vague with me. I think it is relatively new news however, he confirmed that they are no longer producing generic medication. My son has been getting the generic Concerta, after he had issues with other generic brands, I found this wonderful piece of information you provided and was able to advocate his needs because of the information you shared. I appreciate all of the work that you’ve put into helping mom’s like me who have no idea what they’re doing. If you know of any other authorized generic brands for Concerta, I will keep my eyes out for your amazing advice. It’s unfortunate that I can no longer get his generic concerta through patriot as it has worked well for us. Just wanted to give you a heads up if you are not already aware.
Hi Kristi,
You might want to check out my most recent post. I believe I linked to it at the intro to this one.
https://adhdrollercoaster.org/adhd-news-and-research/janssen-bombshell-ends-concerta-authorized-generic/
It contains some guidance as you might want to proceed now.
Unfortunately, none of what you share is news. I’ve reported on these developments starting in November, 2022. It’s just that you won’t hear about it from other ADHD-themed sites.
So, always turn here first. 🙂
good luck! I hate that this issue based in greed is causing so much heartache. It’s intolerable.
g
Do you know how I could get the actual PK data for the concerta generics? As you point out, the prescribing information for the generics is the same as the brand, so it doesn’t provide the actual concentration-time information for the generic product. While your main point is that none will be really similar to concerta, I’m hoping that with the their actual PK data, some of the generics will be at least a little more like concerta than others, and I could try to find them.
Hi Robert,
I approved your comment and provided a response days ago. Not sure what happened. But I am on the road and in Southern California, where the weather has been nuts and so has access to Internet connection.
I will re-write my response when I get time. Bottom line: I don’t think you will find that actual PK data. Because they don’t have to provide it.
If I recall correctly, they only have to show blood concentrations as bioequivalent. That doesn’t mean therapeutic bioequivalence. Entirely different thing.
g
Some small batches of Patriot Authorized Generic are still available!
I needed a refill Monday and learned about the end-of-life for Patriot’s authorized generic. So I began calling all of the pharmacies around my town (mid-sized city) and very quickly found a pharmacy chain that confirmed one of their locations still had over 100 in stock.
I spoke with my doctor and he agreed to prescribe 3 months worth at once, and I just picked them up. So if you’re still scrambling to find an alternative, be sure to call around (and make sure to ask the chains if any of their other locations have them in stock, because they can likely see how many their other stores have).
This effectively gives me three months to find an appropriate alternative.
good reminder. tx
An order for 36mg generic was called in for me on February 11th. It is due to come in stock on April 11th. The manufacturer they expect is Trigen and that’s the one that doesn’t work for me and I reported to the FDA and spoke to them on the phone after my reporting it as an inferior generic. This is Publix Pharmacy in Florida. They have Vyvanse in stock for $200, but it might need special approval. Crazy how insurance doesn’t want to cover that because it is sometimes used for binge eating disorder. So most of those who need it are for ADHD and are out of luck. SMH
Hi Susan,
It’s so stressful!
I expect some insurers don’t want to pay for Vyvanse because it’s more expensive. Simple as that.
g
Pingback: The forgotten victims of the Adderall shortage – Michael Groves
In your section 8, you note that the Ascent / Camber generic does not use the osmotic delivery system. But the package insert from Camber (https://www.camberpharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/4130-31341-Pack-Insert-for-Methylphenidate-Hydrochloride-ER-Tablets-USP-Ascent-Camber-955-08-2021a.pdf) says it does. How do you know that it doesn’t?
From Camber: “Methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release tablets uses osmotic pressure to deliver
methylphenidate HCl at a controlled rate. The system, which resembles a conventional tablet in
appearance, comprises an osmotically active trilayer core surrounded by a semipermeable membrane
with an immediate-release drug overcoat. The trilayer core is composed of two drug layers containing….”
Hi Robert,
I know this is all SO confusing. I do my best to educate on all the details, so it makes sense. But it’s a lot to wade through.
Please read again. I did not say, as you wrote, that “the Ascent/Camber generic does not use the osmotic delivery system.”
This is what I wrote: NOTE: The Ascent generic (distributed by Camber) uses a barrel-shaped pill. It seems designed to fool consumers/physicians/pharmacists that this generic uses OROS. It does not.
The general term is osmotic delivery system. There are many types.
OROS is the patented, trademarked osmotic delivery system used in Concerta. The only methylphenidate product to do so. It’s patented by a company called Alza (later purchased by Janssen parent company J&J). That’s why Concerta pills say “alza”.
Again, this doesn’t mean Camber’s generic is “bad”. It means it doesn’t use Concerta’s delivery system and so, by scientists who understand these things, it’s truly not “bioequivalent” to Concerta. Meaning, can be interchanged without any noticeable difference.
I hope this helps
Gina
Due to the adderall shortage I was forced to find an alternative medication for my adhd. My doctor switched me over to methylphenidate XR. The pills appeared reddish-brown with a capital M surrounded by a square and the number 54 next to it. Curious about the manufacturer I did some googling and “Mallinckrodt” popped up. Any updates on this particular generic since 2016? Is this the same generic trash as 7 years ago?? Do you know of any reliable tactics of exchanging stimulant medication for a different formulation if already filled. I know this is unlikely, but hoping there might be a way.
Hi Shelly,
I wonder why your doctor didn’t at least try to keep you in the amphetamine class, if that’s what you’d settled on as best for you. Mydayis is essentially Adderall in an extended-release formulation. There are savings programs, last I checked.
As to your question….yes, that’s Mallinckrodt. I can’t imagine it’s any different. That’s one of the two generics downgraded by the FDA as not bio-equivalent.
All that’s different, really, is the Trump’s FDA chief, who reversed the decision and pushed through these generics.
I don’t think you can exchange stimulants. Never heard of it, anyway. Once you pick it up at the pharmacy and open it, it’s yours.
That typically doesn’t that you have to gut it out until your 30 days (or whatever) are up, not if it doesn’t work for you. Much depends on your prescriber and your insurance plan, though.
good luck
Gina
I have good news and bad news from my family’s latest adventures.
1. The good news is that Patriot authorized-generic Concerta doesn’t seem to have been available at such a wide variety of pharmacy chains in years as it is right now. If you’re about to fill, call around and ask about the NDCs Gina’s listed — you might be surprised how easy it is for you to find. Call pharmacy chains who’ve told you before that they’d stopped ordering Patriot because it was so expensive. Lots of them are ordering it this week.
2. The bad news is that places that had stopped carrying it seem to have all ordered it because they can’t get their hands on any other generic Concerta nor on the brand-name Concerta. So if you’re NOT about to fill, the remaining supplies of Patriot Authorized Generic Concerta are about to FLY off the shelves of almost every pharmacy serving almost every single Concerta patient everywhere, because it’s the ONLY Concerta of ANY sort in stock at many places.
Wow, that is very strange. Thanks for the report from the front line.
This will no doubt vary by geography, type of pharmacy, and pharmacy chains/warehouses.
But seems it’s worth a try.
Name brand is available just fine. My pharmacy has been ordering it for me every month and shows up in a few days from date of order. Literally just filled it Tuesday. No problems at all.
Good for you, Jackie. Unfortunately, not everyone is as fortunate.
There’s endless variability store to store, chain to chain, insurance pharmacy benefit, etc.
g
To add to Jackie’s comment, I find that when I call around and ask about “methylphenidate ER” I often get slammed first off with “ sorry on back order, no idea when we get some”. Only if I pursue and ask if they have brand Concerta do they say “ oh yeah but insurance won’t cover it “ ! This even when I’m calling a random pharmacist who has no idea about my coverage! Often they actually do have it, the other days call actually confirmed they had some *right there on the shelf*! So weird! And to reports of Patriot being available places as of a week ago I had not gotten that sense at all in my flyover-country lands, but just filled anyway so I guess out of luck in any case . I’m getting tired of the idea of being jerked around for my kid so we’re starting the search for acceptable alternatives. But I do want to keep up with any “ class actions “ — indeed why don’t we do one of those ?!?! I mean seriously ….
Anyway, good luck and cheers to everyone!
Hi M,
There’s been a big shift from Concerta brand being covered fairly widely (definitely not comprehensively, though) to being covered rarely. Maybe that’s what the pharmacists mean.
What would be the basis for a Class Action suit? I don’t think there is any.
Trump’s FDA chief pushed through these Concerta generics in 2017….making them “legal”….after some of us worked very hard to have the first two downgraded — and succeeded. But that was 2014.
Mega-mergers also happened during the Trump administration that likely would not have been allowed before and after. When I saw that two 800-pound gorillas — CVS and Aetna — were merging, I knew no good would come of it. It came as no surprise when CVS rarely (if ever) filled prescriptions with the Concerta authorized-generic. Walgreen’s did. Sometimes other pharmacies. Not CVS. Wasn’t as profitable as the junk generics, I figure.
Elections have consequences. When we don’t know what’s happening (or what HAS happened), we tend to blame all wrong parties.
Good luck in your search. There are many other options out there.
g
Hi Gina !
Any thoughts or comments on “Relexxii” as an alternative to Concerta ? It seems to have been “approved” in June 2022, and it is shown to be in the same mg doses as Concerta but it is not a Concerta generic? Seems to be connected to all these different LLCs owned by the same acquisition fund Avista, Vertical Pharma and Osmotica both? Looks like a weird series of money moves and that is what it is of course, but the recent “ approval “ of something that looks like a Concerta generic but as a new brand feels like we are about to see another work-around on coming off-patent for a medication that has a distinct mechanism of action? I don’t see it even as available yet on GoodRx for instance in anything but the 72 mg dosage? I’m so confused! Thanks for any help you can offer here! Cheers…
Hi M,
“Weird series of money moves” is right! 🙂
One doctor friend tells me that the 72 mg Relexxii is bioequivalent to the Concerta 72 mg. Maybe that’s why it’s the only one you see?
Why not the other doses? I have no idea. Stay tuned.
And yes, Relexxii is a brand, not a generic. The generics have generic names (in this case, methylphenidate ER; they’re known mainly by their manufacturer’s name.)
Mainly, I am letting folks know there are many other methylphenidate options, some of them brands with no generic (e.g. Quillivant).
good luck!
g
Thanks for that info Gina and the wishes for luck—we’ll need it !
So strange . If it’s the same as Concerta then why is it allowed to get new drug RLD status ?! My insurance formulary doesn’t even list it which isn’t surprising because it was just approved in June 22.
The FDA orange book shows all the same mg dosages as Concerta, and a branded approval for all done in June 22.
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/ob/results_product.cfm?Appl_Type=N&Appl_No=216117#
The 72mg version has been marketed by Vertical Pharmaceuticals as a cool way to —get this — cover two non ER 36 mg doses! Did they get special RLD brand approval for that? It seems to have been sold as 72mg but without a brand name ? I can’t really tell here because they are claiming it is the “ first and only er 72 mg” ?
https://www.methylphenidateer72.com/
So now Vertical Pharmaceuticals and Osmotica have both been bought by Avista and so I wonder if Vertical actually did have a “real” OROS type action that they “gave” to Osmotica to use to get Relexxii approved as a new RLD?
This seems like a giant work around to the idea that medications go off-patent at some point so consumers can benefit from lower costs.
It’s like somehow someone creates decent action OROS tech outside of ALZA and gets the FDA to approve its use in essentially re-producing Concerta and claiming it is a novel agent?! Could this have been a long term play in getting all those garbage generics approved in the first place?! Oh see the generics for *Concerta* don’t work so here we are creating the “next generation” Concerta!
Good questions, M.
I’ve been puzzling this with an ADHD specialist MD, and we’re still scratching our heads.
Waiting for more info….all we can do, I guess.
g
Hi again, ugh, NOW I realize that *Trigen* merged with Vertical before being taken over by Osmotica ( dizzying this M&A stuff and frightening when done with companies whose products have such profound effects on peoples lives !) so I am not hopeful about this “Relexxii” product because iirc people did not find the Trigen generic action similar to the Alza in the Concerta! Unless Osmotica has come up with something better than they used to have, the “new agent”approval for Relexxii in dosages that look just like Concerta looks like a “replacement” for the whole product and the combo of that with the rumors that Jannsen is moving away from the adhd market and the fact that they are closing the Alza plant they run in Vacaville
https://www.fiercepharma.com/manufacturing/janssen-laying-off-four-dozen-employees-as-california-plant-slated-for-closure
A sale to another company of the same Alza tech would be one thing, but my fear is that they have decided none of this matters to the patients, and maybe they’ll just force us to transition to a whole different product. That nobody will pick up the same tech because J&J owns Alza. Trigen/Osmotica/Vertical (now I realize the three of them were bought/ organized under a “Alora” llc for a while recently or maybe still? How that relates to Avista partners who knows; lord each of these transactions means money changing hands that doubtless is more behind the outrageous prices we pay for pharma than money they actually spend in R & D ) maybe knew Jannsen was wanting to “ leave the space “ and got RLD approval for their inferior tech and that’s what we will be left with?
I have to say I’m not hopeful about someone else putting out a decent generic for Concerta and I wouldn’t doubt that with all this PE money parked into the scene that Alza tech will not be licensed to anyone for adhd products, certainly not anything affordable. I can imagine a number of behind-the-scenes “ agreements” among the players here to make it all stock price / profit margin “win-win” for the corps and not good for us people .
I do realize that we’ve been weirdly lucky with the authorized generic for years , but it feels like this moving *any* osmotic tech to a new RLD and leaving the slew of non OS generics for us if brand is not covered for us is what is in the works . Which gee if generics had been pulled for not being therapeutically equivalent and now they approve a new RLD that is the same thing as Concerta just with an inferior OROS ?! This would be fascinating to watch play out if it weren’t so horrific for patients .
Good luck to us all!
Wow, good sleuthing on the Alza plant. I mean, bad news, but good data.
Big Generic pays absolutely zippo on R&D. They just slide in on the path Big Pharma has paved, exploiting loopholes all the way and fattening pockets.
When I was first trying to figure out what was going on…back in 2013 or so…I called a pharma patent attorney. He explained that the first two generic cos – Mallinckrodt and Kremers-Urban — were “brilliant in exploiting FDA loopholes….GENIUS!”
I’m fairly jaded in this regard but even I was shocked….repulsed. All I could mutter out was, “Genius….if you’re a SOCIOPATH.” Good grief. These people are absolutely detached from any concern about consequences for others. It’s only their greed and dominance that drives them.
Specifically to your point: “It feels like moving any osmotic tech to a new RLD and leaving the slew of non OS generics for us is brand is not covered for us is what is in the works.”
That is exactly the problem. And it’s what we fought in 2014, only to have Trump’s FDA Chief break it all over again.
Consumers CAN file an FDA Medwatch complaint. That’s how we did it before. In revisiting this with the FDA two weeks ago, I was assured they are paying attention to the complaints. We need to get on it. Easier said than done when people are scrambling for Rx that keeps them functional, much less able to take on anything else.
good luck
g
I wish I didn’t feel the need to keep digging but it’s my kid I’m trying to help and I am a digger by nature ( PhD in psych, not clinical though! Probably should have done something more archives based —my own untreated adhd keeps me hyper focused on searching for answers sometimes !)
As I am trying to research other Concerta like meds, I looked into Adhansia XR and I see there had never been a generic version approved it seems and the manufacturer—Adlon Therapeutics, a subsidiary of Purdue —has discontinued it as of July 22 🙁
https://adlontherapeutics.com/products/
They say this was purely “a business decision” and not anything about effectiveness or safety . Thanks pharma!
Looks like they may have declared bankruptcy maybe part of paying for Purdue sins in other domains?
So, hmm, maybe shortages of everything are also being driven by these products sitting around after being “pulled “? It’s so unpleasant the lack of concern for the patients!
So now on to checking on Aptensio for us, to try, given that the action is maybe easier-to-reproduce-in-a-generic extended release capsule? I’m trying to find ones that have claimed duration similar to Concerta and we are working with a primary care physician who is great but not a specialist in these things.
Probably after we do a trial of a Concerta generic to most likely file a medwatch because we’ve had a non-authorized generic before but it was years ago and was able to get the authorized again.
I suspect this stunt with FDA Chief Gottlieb created havoc all around — and not just with ADHD medications.
It’s massive.
But yes, at least two new ADHD Rx came from Purdue, as I recall, and Adhansia is one of them.
It’s great that you can do preliminary research like this, but unsolicited advice…it’s easy to get lost in the weeds, trying to read the “tea leaves” regarding mechanism of action, etc… When really what needs to happen is trial and error, unfortunately.
You probably know this, but one way to start separating wheat from chaff is to think about the profile your child best needs — that is, more oompph in the morning, a steadily ascending rate, etc..
good luck,
g
Thanks again Gina! Even for the unsolicited advice 😉 !
Any advice on where to look online for clues on course-of-day profiles? Adhansia was appealing on paper because it’s duration on a well known adhd website that gives length of action seemed to be among the longer ones and it’s long duration that seems most needed for my kid ( who is essentially young adult now but Only done meds for the last bunch of years) . It wouldn’t be terrible for quicker morning kick-in but beyond that the only complaint I’ve heard is crash at like 8 to 10pm, which really, what more can you hope for lol? They started with a pediatric rec of Concerta and it was good right off so haven’t ever had to do trial and error yet but yes I do appreciate that this is what will ultimately determine what will be best!
Anyway thanks again for all you do!
Cheers!
You know, there’s always the option of a second dose, even if the prescriber has never heard of such a thing.
My niece asked her doctor for a second dose, for her 12-year-old, who was crashing in the afternoon, and the doctor said, “You can’t do that because of the DEA!”
Wrong-oh. But typical.
You can always look up the product label for each brand. But when it comes to getting its generic, it could little to no resemblance.
BTW, my course on optimizing ADHD-related sleep and medication.
https://ginapera.adhdsuccesstraining.com/view/courses/course-2-physical-strategies
g
Hi KSK,
Yes I hope you have continued luck getting Concerta and paying a lower cost. We are in Massachusetts and we cannot make use of the coupon. I was debating paying for brand, but since it is not in my insurance’s formulary, I think that even if we reached deductible they wouldn’t cover anything. We’ll see where this takes us. I’m kind of curious now to have my daughter try another methylphenidate brand. I like what I read about Jornay PM. Thanks for sharing. And yes, thanks to Gina. I’ve been following her blog for years. To be honest I wish we didn’t need to become such experts on this. If only patients needs came first.
My insurance is only covering Quillivant because there’s not another liquid extended release available at the moment and it’s just been 2 months. I don’t know how long it’s going to last.
Most of my researching starts right here with you, Gina. Thank you.
Hi Suzanne,
Happy to help! good luck!
g
My daughter’s been on Concerta Authorized Generic since about 2010. So whenever it switched to Patriot was when we would have noticed we no longer received the ALZA pill. Lord knows I can’t remember the year but we know it was under Trump. However I don’t know if the bum generic we received was TEVA or something else. It was whatever CVS gave us. Makes me wonder then if I answered his question correctly as, yes, at one point she would have received the Activis/TEVA Authorized Generic which was fine, until it wasn’t. But for most of the time after that we were able to get the Patriot Authorized Generic (ALZA). Try to explain all that to some stranger on the phone who I could barely understand for his accent. In any case I know insurance will try to screw us because that’s what they do. If not, then pigs fly and hell has frozen over and drug companies care about people.
Hi Kathy,
Patriot is a Janssen subsidiary. When the previous deal expired (with Watson-Actavis-Teva), the AG was distributed by Patriot.
Teva then went forward with its own Concerta generic. A “true” generic, not an authorized-generic (brand sold as a generic).
The DEA tightly controls stimulant Rx. I bet you could ask your pharmacist to check your history and see what you got in 2017.
good luck,
g
Hi Kathy,
I will say that Gina has been a Godsend with all of this! And even that doesn’t cover how much I have respected and followed her research and sound advice. We ultimately had our doctor (this is for my son) go through the prior authorization route. He stated that the generics caused great sensitivity with adverse reactions to my son that prohibited him from taking them. The prior authorization was approved for the brand name Concerta for 1 year. However, the cost was still a bit high. My son takes both 36mg + 54mg per day. So a 90 day supply for each strength, was $180. ($180 x 2 = $360 per 90 days / 3 = $120 per month) We then went to the Concerta website and downloaded their savings card. The Concerta Savings card brought each strength down to $30 for a 90 day supply!!!! Meaning, $20 per month for both strengths. Now…… I have no idea how long this will last. Especially with the Concerta savings card, and I suppose I should read the fine print now so I’m not left scrambling when this ends. But for now, this will do. And, believe it or not, this was through our local CVS too. (I’m still scratching my head over that one as we’ve never had much luck with them.) But yes, it is possible. $20 per month for the brand Concerta through CVS. Fingers crossed that we’ll be able to maintain this status for the next year. Good luck to you and anyone else who reads this – GINA is amazing!!!!
HI KSK,
Thanks for the update! I’m so pleased my tips have worked for you and your child.
I, too, am surprised it was the local CVS. Must be a particularly nice branch manager! Or even CVS is getting an avalanche of requests.
Did you get the 90-day supply at the local pharmacy? Not a home-delivery? That’s unusual! Though I imagine it depends on the state and the policy terms.
Happy for you!
g
Hi Gina –
Yes, 90-day supply through our local CVS! Again, I have no idea how long this will last, so I’m going to keep my fingers crossed. This has been such a roller coaster!!!
Thank you again for all of your advocacy, suggestions, ideas, and research. You really are a very special persona and I appreciate everything you have done for the ADD community!!!
Victory to the people! 🙂
Yay! I’m happy for you.
The public has no idea….taking ADHD rx is an “easy fix.” HA!
You’re most welcome. I’m happy that my work has helped you. It’s why I do what I do!
take care,
g
I returned the call to TEVA. All of his questions regarded TEVA’s generic and honestly I don’t know if my daughter ever tried TEVA. She may have. All I know is when the other generics became available we got whatever CVS gave us. I’m assuming TEVA is what Optum Rx prefers? At other times through my local independent pharmacy she tried Camber and I think Trigen. Anyway he asked me about adverse health effects and I said her mood, attention, concentration, sleep, appetite. He asked me when she last tried TEVA. I guessed and said 2017. All I know is that when the mess started I did everything to find the Authorized Generic and I was successful. Now I wait. I get the feeling they will say she should try TEVA again since it has been 5 years. Okay fine. She is willing to try. But if no good we’ll go back to the exception process or try another methylphenidate. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if Concerta Brand came down in price? I don’t know why they don’t. They’d get a lot more sales.
Kathy – I’m pretty sure the TEVA formulation hasn’t changed since 2017. That would have required an entirely new approval process.
And I agree that it’s a mystery….why Concerta brand doesn’t come down in price. Janssen is losing unimaginable numbers of customers.
Perhaps Janssen has already sold it.
g
Although, wasn’t TEVA/Actavis the provider of the Authorized Generic right before it switched over to Patriot? Kathy might’ve lucked out and actually received the AG in 2017. Trying to remember when it went to Patriot, maybe early 2019? Not sure.
Hi Ann,
Yes, the Janssen/Watson-Actavis-Teva agreement expired at the end of 2017.
So. yes, good point, Kathy might have received the AG.
I try to emphasize using ALZA to identify the pill, not the distributor’s name. Makes things easier—and more accurate! 🙂
g
Kathy,
In looking for other methylphenidate products for myself, I searched for the extended release profiles or pharmacokinetics and found the graph for Quillivant is similar to Concerta. My insurance is paying for it and so far it works for me.
Good luck.
Thanks, Suzanne.
I updated my 2013 post last November, on Quillivant and Quillichew.
As I point out, there are savings programs. But given how few policies seem to cover brand these days, that might not matter.
Still, worth a try.
https://adhdrollercoaster.org/adhd-news-and-research/a-new-ritalin-extended-release-liquid/
Gina
Teva core is a hydrogel matrix. Concerta is a tri-layer core. The hydrogel matrix is not osmotic release. We tried my son Teva and it was not a good fit. It did little to control his symptoms. Everything in my area is back ordered … we plan on trying Camber and/ XLcare generic whenever it is available. Their profile seems similar to Concerta… tri-layer core and osmotic release. Anyway hoping these generics are a better fit for him.
I have talked with my daughter’s doctor about requesting Concerta Brand with our insurance through their exception process. We have Tufts HMO with Optum Rx for pharmacy (used to be CVS Caremark). I had a message on my answering machine today from TEVA Pharmaceuticals regarding Methylphenidate. I will call tomorrow but it seems strange I’m getting a call from TEVA. What do they have to do with my insurance or Concerta? Is our insurance trying to push the TEVA generic on us? I’ll update tomorrow when I call them back. I’m feeling AAAAARRRRRGGGGGHHHHH!!!!!!!!!
Kathy
VERY INTERESTING, Kathy!
This isn’t the first such incident. I have a feeling that Teva is overstepping its bounds—and pharmacies are encouraging it.
If it was CVS, well, anything goes with them. (Optum Rx and CVS have partnered.). I avoid them.
Absolutely, Teva’s generic is being pushed on you, and I bet you’ll hear that it’s “just like” Concerta. It isn’t.
Conflict of interest, it seems.
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