Shire announces Health Canada's approval of VYVANSE for treatment of ADHD in adolescents and adults

Shire plc (LSE: SHP, NASDAQ: SHPGY), the global specialty biopharmaceutical company, announces that Health Canada has approved VYVANSE^® (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules) for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adolescents and adults.

"There is a misconception that ADHD is a childhood condition but the reality is that an estimated 1.1 million Canadian adults are living with this neurological condition, the symptoms of which can significantly impact all aspects of daily living," said ADHD expert, Dr. Isaac Szpindel, MD.  "This treatment option is significant news for adults with ADHD."

VYVANSE is the first and only once-daily prodrug stimulant approved to treat ADHD in adolescents and adults.

Current unmet need
A recent Angus-Reid survey of 302 Canadian adults diagnosed with ADHD showed most adults with ADHD rank symptom control as one of the most important qualities they look for in an ADHD medication. 96 per cent of those surveyed reported symptom control throughout the day as an important attribute of the ideal ADHD medication. Less than one in five (18 per cent) say that their ADHD causes no disruption during the course of the day.

"When it comes to adult ADHD we shouldn't underestimate the potentially downward-spiralling effects of uncontrolled ADHD and the benefit of symptom control throughout the day," said Heidi Bernhardt, National Director of the Centre for ADHD/ADD Advocacy, Canada (CADDAC). "ADHD is a treatable condition that can be managed if people with it have access to effective treatment that their doctors recommend."