Covidien’s Mallinckrodt announces new generic Concerta dosage strengths

Covidien's pharmaceuticals business Mallinckrodt has announced the release of 36 mg and 54 mg dosage strengths of Methylphenidate HCI Extended-Release Tablets USP, generic version of Concerta.

The launch of the two dosages comes after the firm received approval to produce and market the tablets in 27 mg – which was made available in December 2012 – 36 mg and 54 mg forms from the US Food and Drug Administration at the end of last year.

These tablets are used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) for people aged between six and 65.

Mark Trudeau, president of Mallinckrodt, said: "The launch of these additional dosage strengths are important additions to our line of generic pharmaceutical products and we look forward to providing these affordable treatment options to patients."

The medication is often used as part of a wider ADHD programme that includes other measures such as educational, social and psychological considerations.