Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that, according to Frost and Sullivan, is projected to afflict about 6.5 million by 2009, the treatment of which will generate a potential revenue of about $3 billion. With patents on adderall, a drug indicated for ADHD, expiring soon, manufacturer Shire teams up with New River Pharmaceuticals to offer alternative solution.

NRP104, New River Pharma's product candidate, is a conditionally bioreversible derivative (CBD) of amphetamine, a stimulant widely used to treat ADHD. NRP104 is intended to provide better overdose protection and a reduced potential for addiction than currently-marketed amphetamine products.

A second, long-term Phase III efficacy and safety study is ongoing, and the producers anticipate filing for an NDA on NRP104 by the end of 2005. The treatment may be ready for commercialization in about a year.

Source: Washington Business Journal