Beijing Huasu Wins NMPA Clinical Trial Approval for Methylphenidate ER Chewable Tablets, First Domestic Generic for ADHD Treatment

Beijing Huasu Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Beijing Centergate Technologies (SHE: 000931), has received clinical trial approval from China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for its methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release chewable tablets. The drug will be assessed as a treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in patients aged 6 years and older.

Regulatory Milestone

AgencyApproval TypeProductIndicationDateNext Steps
NMPA (China)Clinical Trial ApprovalMethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release chewable tabletsADHD in patients aged 6 years and older02 Sep 2026Clinical trials to establish safety and efficacy of the generic formulation in China

Drug Profile & Competitive Landscape

  • Molecule: Methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release chewable tablets, a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant indicated for the treatment of ADHD
  • Originator: Quillichew ER, developed by US-based Tris Pharma
  • China commercialization: Introduced to the Chinese market by Pediatrix Therapeutics, where it has already received marketing approval
  • Market structure: The originator currently remains the only approved product for this formulation in China
  • First-mover status: Beijing Huasu becomes the first domestic pharmaceutical company to receive clinical trial authorization for a generic version of this chewable sustained-release tablet

Market Impact & Outlook

  • First domestic entrant: The clinical trial approval gives Beijing Huasu a potential head start in China’s generic race for methylphenidate extended-release chewable tablets
  • Growing demand: Pediatric ADHD diagnosis and treatment rates in China continue to rise, supporting demand for patient-friendly formulations such as chewable tablets
  • Import substitution: A successful domestic generic could challenge the current monopoly of originator Quillichew ER, with implications for pricing and market access
  • Strategic fit: The approval strengthens the CNS portfolio of Beijing Centergate Technologies and its subsidiary Beijing Huasu
  • Sector signal: The milestone reflects increasing domestic capability among Chinese generics developers in complex formulations like extended-release chewable CNS products

Forward‑Looking Statements – This brief contains forward-looking statements regarding the clinical development and potential commercialization of methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release chewable tablets. Actual results may differ materially due to clinical, regulatory, and market risks. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.-Fineline Info & Tech