Why take focalin instead of ritalin

Concerta capsules use osmotic-controlled release oral delivery system OROS technology to release methylphenidate. When a person swallows Concerta, fluid from the stomach and intestines enter the tablet and push the medication out of the pill slowly throughout the day.

Similar to Biphentin, the medication will last for 10—12 hours. At the end of the effect of the medication, people can use a short-acting methylphenidate form if needed. People should not cut or crush Concerta capsules. People who cannot swallow pills may have difficulty taking Concerta. This product does not use the OROS technology for releasing the medication. The major reason that people choose the generic form instead of Concerta is its lower cost.

However, no clinical studies have confirmed that this generic provides the same effect as Concerta. Some doctors have reported behavioral changes when people switch from Concerta to its generic equivalent. Caregivers, individuals, pharmacists, and doctors should report any behavioral changes they observe.

Ritalin LA is an extended-release tablet that releases half of the medication at once and the other half slowly throughout the day. People should not crush, chew, or split this tablet. Daytrana is a methylphenidate patch that a person puts on their hip. Researchers have studied its effects in children aged 6—12 and those aged 13— A person applies this patch to their skin 2 hours before they need the effects of the medication. The person should remove the patch after a maximum of 9 hours.

Methylphenidate is also available in short-acting formulations. Ritalin, Ritalin SR, and their generic equivalents release methylphenidate immediately, but the effect does not last long.

People must take multiple doses per day of these short-acting medicines to achieve the desired effect. Doctors prefer to prescribe long-acting stimulants and add a short-acting medicine if the person needs additional help after the effect of the long-acting drug wears off. Dextro-methylphenidate is a variation of methylphenidate present in Focalin and Focalin XR. This variation of methylphenidate is more active than its typical counterpart.

It is available in a short- and long-acting formulation. Focalin and Focalin XR are available in the following strengths:.

A person can open these capsules and sprinkle them into food. Doctors can prescribe Focalin and Focalin XR to all age groups. Amphetamines are a type of stimulant that increases the release of both dopamine and norepinephrine. These products are available in the following strengths:.

Amphetamines are also available in both long-acting and short-acting formulations. We discuss each amphetamine stimulant in more detail below.

Dextro-amphetamine is the main active ingredient in Adderall XR. Doctors can prescribe this medication to children, adolescents, and adults with ADHD. As a long-acting medication, it provides symptom control for 10—12 hours. Sometimes, doctors will need to prescribe a short-acting amphetamine drug to provide symptom control later in the afternoon.

Vyvanse contains lisdexamfetamine, which is an inactive form of amphetamine. When a person takes Vyvanse, their body transforms the inactive medicine into dextroamphetamine.

Vyvanse has similar effects to Adderall XR. Adults who take Vyvanse can gain 14 hours of symptom control. Dexedrine Spansules will last about 6—8 hours. The Dexedrine tablet will only last 3—5 hours, so people tend to use it once the long-acting drug wears off later in the day. Nonstimulant medications act on a set of different pathways that offer another treatment option. Doctors may prescribe nonstimulant medications in combination with stimulants or alone.

Some people cannot tolerate the side effects of stimulant medications and can only take nonstimulants. When people use nonstimulant medications, they may only notice their symptoms start to improve after about 6—8 weeks. As a result, this treatment is not appropriate for people who require urgent symptom control. The College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists disclaims any and all liability alleged as a result of the information provided herein.

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Mental health conditions Learn more about common mental health conditions that affect millions. What are methylphenidate or dexmethylphenidate and what do they treat? What is the most important information I should know about methylphenidate or dexmethylphenidate? Are there specific concerns about methylphenidate or dexmethylphenidate and pregnancy? What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking methylphenidate or dexmethylphenidate?

The most bothersome symptoms of your condition If you have thoughts of suicide or harming yourself If you experience side effects from your medications, discuss them with your provider. Some side effects may pass with time, but others may require an adjustment in the medication Any other psychiatric or medical problems you have, including heart disease All other medications you are currently taking including over the counter products, herbal and nutritional supplements and any medication allergies you have Other non-medication treatment you are receiving, such as talk therapy or substance abuse treatment.

Your provider can explain how these different treatments work with the medication. If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding If you drink alcohol or use drugs How should I take methylphenidate or dexmethylphenidate? Immediate release formulations should be given two or three times a day to provide symptom coverage throughout the day. Extended release and long-acting medications that last for 8 to 12 hours should be taken once a day in the morning.

The capsules with beads may be opened if a person has trouble swallowing, however, the beads should be swallowed whole without chewing. Both Focalin and Adderall are similar in effectiveness.

One systematic review from The Lancet pooled data from double-blind, randomized clinical trials. This review compared methylphenidate-containing drugs, amphetamines, and non-stimulants, such as guanfacine and clonidine. Results found that methylphenidate-containing drugs are more effective in children and adolescents while amphetamines are more effective in adults. Consult a doctor for the best ADHD treatment for you or your child.

One treatment may be preferred over the other depending on age, previously tried medications and overall conditions. Sign up for Adderall price alerts and find out when the price changes! Many Medicare and insurance plans cover generic Focalin. You can use a Focalin SingleCare card to save more. Get the SingleCare prescription discount card. Generic Adderall may be covered by some Medicare and insurance plans. The most common side effects of Focalin and Adderall are stomach upset abdominal pain , increased heart rate palpitations , increased blood pressure, nausea, and dry mouth.

Stimulants can also cause a loss of appetite, which could result in weight loss. Focalin may also cause other side effects such as sore throat and migraines. Other side effects of Adderall include an unpleasant taste or taste disturbances. Serious side effects include hypersensitivity reactions or allergic reactions to drug ingredients. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience a severe rash or trouble breathing anaphylaxis after taking these medications.

Frequency is not based on data from a head-to-head trial. This may not be a complete list of adverse effects that can occur. Please refer to your doctor or healthcare provider to learn more. Focalin and Adderall have similar drug interactions. Focalin and Adderall use should be monitored in those taking serotonergic drugs, such as antidepressants, fentanyl, lithium, and St. Combining Focalin or Adderall with serotonergic drugs can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition.

Since stimulants can increase blood pressure, the effects of blood pressure medications may be decreased. Adjustments in dosage may be needed if you are taking a stimulant and blood pressure medication. This could cause an increase or decrease in effects. Focalin and Adderall are controlled substances that have a high potential for abuse. Taking these medications long-term can increase the risk of abuse and dependence, especially if they are taken outside of their prescribed dosage.

These medications should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Focalin and Adderall are CNS stimulants that may be linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular events, such as stroke and heart attacks.

Their use should be monitored in those with a history of heart disease and heart rhythm problems arrhythmias. Stimulants can also increase blood pressure and heart rate. Monitor blood pressure while taking stimulants, especially if you have a history of high blood pressure. The use of stimulants may cause or worsen other mental health problems.

Monitor for signs of hostility, anxiety, aggression, paranoia, and depression while taking stimulants. Before taking Focalin or Adderall, tell your doctor if you have a history of depression or bipolar disorder. Focalin is an ADHD prescription medication. It is available as a generic medication called dexmethylphenidate.