Generic Medications

[Rdu81]

Has anyone had issues with generic versions - different manufacturers- of medications? My 12 year-old was on Quillivant but switched to dexmethylphenidate due to costs. The first month was fine, but this second month - new manufacturer - has been horrific. It’s like he’s not on anything at all. Most benefit of the stimulant is not seen. Any insights?

[Klmamma]

Yes!!!! Some of the different brands have red dye in them. The inactive ingredients are different. The material the capsules are made out of absorb differently as well. We usually use Lannett without issue. It lasts 8 hours. Slightly decreased appetite is the only side effect.

We had to use Amneal brand this month. By day 5 he was raging, couldn't sleep, couldn't eat etc. It was also lasting 12 hours! It definitely does make a difference sadly.

[Rdu81 in reply to Klmamma]

Thank you!!

[216megan412]

yes, we have experienced this with methylphenidate. We went back to the doctor earlier than usual for a medication check in and learned not all manufacturers of generic medications have the same benefit to all who take them. Our doctor now lists manufacturer specific on our son’s prescription. I always call the pharmacy ahead of time too to find out what they carry before we send our prescription to that pharmacy.

You have recognized this early, which is more helpful for you.

[Rdu81 in reply to 216megan412]

Thank you!

[RelaxingDays]

Yes, my 9yr old takes Vyvanse and when the generic was released last year and due to shortage Dr said to try. Not sure if coincidental because of changes at school but school was a disaster. Had to request name brand only which is definitely more helpful...downside is way more expensive. I hate private insurance!!!Also, I guess a parent was opening capsules for child to take med easily and noticed some capsules were not filled with the same amount. This is very interesting 🤔

I would reach out to Dr about your issues and maybe try something different. It's been about 5 years and we still have ups and downs with meds...they work great for some time but as with anything meds need to be adjusted or changed as kiddos are growing and have lots of changes going on in their lives.

Hope this is helpful and good luck.

[Rdu81 in reply to RelaxingDays]

Wow. That’s interesting. I may take a peek at the inside of the capsules to see as well.

Thanks for the insight. Insurance is such a pain. They won’t cover the Quillivant until we’ve tried a multitude of other options. For now we will cash pay. It’s such a headache but I can’t stomach having my son on this medication roller coaster.

[simplething]

Yes, we’ve had to ask our doctor to specifically ask for non generic to be written on the prescription request. We noticed less potency and more side effects with Intunive ER generic and other non related ADHD medications (specifically Synthroid for Hypothyroidism, found at birth.)

The doctor said generics don’t affect most but maybe how my son metabolizes the meds or different carriers the meds are mixed with could be the problem. Immediate results once changed back

As you mentioned, it was like he wasn’t on any medication.

[Peerandparent]

With me personally it was concerta. The whole point was the delivery system, and it's different in the generic.

The regulations around generics need to be much stricter. Write to your representative.

[Onthemove1971]

I know it sounds funny...But if it's not working.. it's not working.

Have you considered a medication that is not controlled? Like Wellbutrin, our son is 17 years and has been doing great on it.