October 30th 2001 - 17:10 GMT
adders.org has learned that a new form of slow release methylphenidate could be licensed in the UK and is currently available from Celltech Pharmaceuticals Limited.
Metadate CD™, as it is currently known in the United States is available on a named patient basis in the UK from Celltech by arrangement with your pharmacist. A Doctor can prescribe Metadate 20mg Capsules (they come in Blister packs of 30) and should advise the patient that their chosen Pharmacist will need to contact Celltech Customer services. The freephone number is 0800 953 0183 (freefax 0800 953 0184). Customer services will fax a form which the pharmacist completes and returns. It is a simple form which notes the product and quantity and accepts the unlicensed nature of the medicine. Delivery is within 48 hrs. It should be noted that Celltech do not need a copy of the prescription as they are concerned it could compromise patient confidentiality.
Celltech launched Metadate CD™ in the USA earlier this year but it has yet to gain a licence here. Metadate CD™ is a modified release form of methylphenidate with a length of action that eliminates the mid-day dose. If it gains licence approval here it is likely to be known as Equasym XL™ and be an addition to the instant release 5mg, 10mg and 20mg Equasym™ tablets already established.
Simon Hensby for ADDers.org