Released on July 18, 2008
The Ministry of Health has expanded the options available to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in the province, as the Saskatchewan Drug Plan now lists two new medications for the treatment of this condition; Concerta and Strattera.
Worldwide, ADHD affects three to five per cent of people under 19. It is estimated that 60 per cent of children diagnosed with ADHD experience symptoms into adulthood. These symptoms include inattention, forgetfulness, poor impulse control, distractibility and hyperactivity.
"This government continues to keep its promise to expand the number of drugs covered by the Saskatchewan Formulary," Health Minister Don McMorris said. "These additions will provide a greater range of options for treating children and adults with this condition."
Concerta and Strattera have been approved by Health Canada to treat ADHD in adults and children six years of age and older. These medications are longer-acting and have less potential for abuse than ADHD drugs currently listed on the formulary.
"These are longer-acting medications, meaning fewer pills are required to manage the symptoms of ADHD," Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Health for Addictions Joceline Schriemer said. "Fewer pills prescribed means fewer pills can go astray, decreasing the risk of abuse."
"The addition of Concerta will greatly reduce the illegal usage and trafficking of a drug designed for legitimate uses but instead has become a target in street level drug trades," Saskatoon Police Chief Clive Weighill said.
Listed as of July 1, Concerta is now a full benefit under the Saskatchewan Formulary while Strattera requires Exception Drug Status approval. Saskatchewan physicians and pharmacists are familiar with the process of requesting Exception Drug Status through the Drug Plan.
The Children's Drug Plan was also effective starting July 1. Under the program, children 14 and under pay no more than $15 for prescriptions listed on the Saskatchewan Formulary, including Concertra and Strattera (with Exception Drug Status approval). Additional information about the Children's Drug Plan is available at www.health.gov.sk.ca/childrens-drug-plan.
Listing Concerta and Strattera as benefits under the Saskatchewan Drug Plan will cost the government up to $2.5 million per year.
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For more information, contact:
Karen Hill
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: khill@health.gov.sk.ca