Compare Focalin vs. Concerta
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) and Concerta (methylphenidate extended-release) are both stimulant medications used to treat ADHD (attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder). Focalin comes in immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (ER) forms. Concerta only comes in an ER form, but methylphenidate IR is available as Ritalin. Additionally, they have similar side effects such as stomach pain, low appetite, and trouble sleeping. Both medications are controlled substances and can cause dependence and misuse. Taking them exactly as prescribed can help you minimize these risks.
- Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)Methylphenidate er
- Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)Methylphenidate er
Summary of Focalin vs. Concerta
Summary for StimulantPrescription onlyDexmethylphenidate (Focalin, Focalin XR) is a stimulant medication that's used for treating attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children. It's thought to work by balancing certain chemicals in your brain to help you focus. This medication is available as an immediate-release tablet that you take twice per day and an extended-release capsule you take once per day. Side effects can include stomach upset and nervousness. It can also cause withdrawal symptoms if it's suddenly stopped after long-term use. Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) is available as both a brand-name and lower-cost generic medication.
Summary for StimulantPrescription onlyMethylphenidate 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 of Focalin vs. Concerta
Indications for•Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)Indications for•Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)Pros and Cons of Focalin vs. Concerta
Pros and Const for StimulantPros•Works well to treat ADHD in children and adults•Available as immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules for a more flexible dosing schedule•Available as a lower-cost genericCons•A controlled substance because of the risk for misuse and dependency•Might cause trouble sleeping if you take too late in the day•Not the best option if you have heart problems•Not available as a liquidPros and Const for StimulantPros•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 oldCons•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 conditionsCommon Side Effects of Focalin vs. Concerta
Common Side Effects forImmediate-release tablet Age 6 to 17 years:
Extended-release capsule Age 6 to 17 years:
Age 17 to 60 years:
•Headache (up to 39%)•Dry mouth (up to 20%)•Anxiety (up to 11%)•Indigestion (up to 9%)•Throat pain (up to 7%)Common Side Effects forSide effects might differ depending on the formulation and brand. In general:
Warnings of Focalin vs. Concerta
Common Side Effects for•Misuse and dependence•Serious heart problems•Changes in behavior or thoughts•Prolonged and painful erection•Problems with blood circulation (Raynaud's phenomenon)•Slowed growth in children•Serotonin syndrome•Drug interactionsCommon Side Effects for•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 interactionsPrices with our coupons for Focalin vs. Concerta
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