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Concerta vs. Ritalin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Concerta and Ritalin have the same active ingredient methylphenidate and are both first-choice medications for treating ADHD, but they have several differences. Concerta is an extended-release formulation of methylphenidate that is typically taken once daily and can start working within 2 hours and lasts throughout the day. On the other hand, Ritalin is an immediate-releas formulation of methylphenidate that is taken 2 to 3 times daily. It starts working within 1 hour but only lasts 2 to 4 hours. Concerta might be more convenient with its once-daily dosing, but both require careful monitoring due to their potential for misuse and side effects.Both medications come in various dosage forms, including tablets, chewable capsules and oral liquids. Side effects like trouble sleeping and loss of appetite are common with both medication.

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Concerta Vs. Ritalin: Differences In Dosing, Side Effects, And More

methylphenidate ER

 

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Methylphenidate

(Ritalin)

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Summary for Concerta

Prescription only

Methylphenidate extended-release (ER) is a first-choice option for people with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This once-daily medication can start to work within 2 hours and can last throughout the day. Methylphenidate ER can cause difficulty sleeping and a loss of appetite. It also has a potential risk of misuse and dependency and is thus a controlled substance.

Indications for Concerta

  • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Pros and Cons for Concerta

Pros

  • First-choice medication for ADHD
  • Taken only once per day
  • Available in many different forms (e.g., pills, chewable tablet, liquid)
  • Some brands available in lower-cost generic form
  • Can be prescribed for children as young as 6 years old

Cons

  • Has a risk of misuse and dependency
  • A controlled medication, so there are special requirements for getting the prescription filled
  • Dose needs to be raised and lowered slowly to avoid bothersome side effects like distress and trouble sleeping
  • Not the best choice for pregnant or breastfeeding females or people with heart conditions
  • Can interact with certain blood pressure medications and depression medications

Common Side Effects for Concerta

Side effects might differ depending on the formulation and brand. In general:

Warnings for Concerta

  • Misuse and dependence
  • Serious heart problems
  • Changes in behavior or thoughts
  • Prolonged and painful erection
  • Blood circulation problem (Raynaud's phenomenon)
  • Slowed growth in children
  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Drug interactions

Summary for Ritalin

Prescription only

Methylphenidate hydrochloride (Ritalin) is a stimulant medication that's used for treating attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy (daytime sleepiness) in adults and children ages 6 years and older. It works by raising the levels of certain chemicals in your brain to keep you focused and awake. The dosage is typically 2 to 3 times per day because it's an immediate-release form of methylphenidate. Side effects of this medication include low appetite, nervousness, and trouble sleeping.

Indications for Ritalin

  • Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
  • Narcolepsy (daytime sleepiness)

Pros and Cons for Ritalin

Pros

  • First-choice medication to treat ADHD in adults and children.
  • Available as a lower-cost generic medication
  • Available as an oral tablet, chewable tablet, and liquid

Cons

  • Is a controlled substance because it has a risk of misuse and dependence
  • Shouldn't stop taking this medication suddenly without talking to your provider first because of greater risk for mood changes
  • Can negatively affect growth in children

Common Side Effects for Ritalin

Side effects might differ depending on the formulation. In general:

  • Headache
  • Anxiety
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Low appetite
  • Weight loss

Warnings for Ritalin

  • Misuse and dependence
  • Serious heart problems
  • Changes in behavior or thoughts
  • Prolonged and painful erection
  • Blood circulation problem (Raynaud's phenomenon)
  • Slowed growth in children
  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Drug interactions
  • Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - chewable tablets only

Prices with our coupons for Concerta vs. Ritalin

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Methylphenidate ER30 tablets / 36mg
$35.74$359.60
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Methylphenidate90 tablets / 10mg
$19.86$134.99
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