Barr challenges Novartis over Ritalin patents

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. Barr Laboratories is challenging the patents listed by Novartis Pharmaceuticals in relation to the company’s Ritalin LA extended-release capsules.

In May, Barr filed for a drug application for a generic form of Ritalin LA, and received notification of the FDA’s acceptance of the application in September. On Friday, Novartis and Celgene, who license the drug to Novartis, filed suit in the U.S. District Court of New Jersey to prevent Barr from launching a generic.

Ritalin LA extended-release, which is available in 10, 20, 30 and 40 mg capsules, is indicated for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.