{"id":3358,"date":"2022-09-02T02:52:12","date_gmt":"2022-09-02T09:52:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cms.helloklarity.com\/?p=3358"},"modified":"2023-10-04T10:56:24","modified_gmt":"2023-10-04T17:56:24","slug":"concerta-vs-ritalin","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cms.helloklarity.com\/post\/concerta-vs-ritalin\/","title":{"rendered":"Concerta vs. Ritalin"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Finding the right ADHD medication can be challenging, particularly when considering medications with similar properties like Concerta and Ritalin. Although these medications share an active ingredient that effectively addresses the symptoms of ADHD, there are key distinctions between them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the guide below, we\u2019ll compare and contrast both medications, discuss how they work in the body, and common side effects, warnings, and contraindications. This information is designed to help you decide which medication may be right for you when discussing options with your healthcare provider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The providers on Klarity can help answer your questions about these medications, provide an appropriate diagnosis, and offer assistance in crafting a personalized treatment plan for your ADHD. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Determine whether Concerta, Ritalin, or another ADHD medication is right for you. Schedule an online appointment<\/a> on Klarity today and get seen within 48 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t
<\/th>Concerta<\/th>Ritalin<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Drug Class<\/strong><\/td>Schedule II stimulant<\/td>Schedule II stimulant<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Brand \/ Generic Status<\/strong><\/td>Brand name for methylphenidate<\/td>Brand name for methylphenidate
\n
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Form(s) of the Drug<\/strong><\/td>Extended-release tablet<\/td>Immediate-release tablets; Extended-release capsules
\n
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Standard Dosage<\/strong><\/td>Extended-release tablets:
\n\u2022 18 mg
\n\u2022 27 mg
\n\u2022 36 mg
\n\u2022 54 mg
\n\u2022 72 mg
\n<\/td>		Standard tablet dosages:
\n\u2022 5mg
\n\u2022 10mg
\n\u2022 20mg
\n\u2022 40mg
\n
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Conditions Treated<\/strong><\/td>FDA-approved uses:
\n\u2022 ADHD
\n\u2022 Narcolepsy
\n<\/td>		FDA-approved uses:
\n\u2022 ADHD
\n\u2022 Narcolepsy<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cost<\/strong><\/td>Generic form (methylphenidate):
\n\u2022 $60 for a one-month supply
\n
\nBrand-name:
\n\u2022 $250 to $300 for a one-month supply
\n<\/td>		Generic form (methylphenidate):
\n\u2022 $50 for a one-month supply<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Side-Effects<\/strong><\/td>Common side effects:
\n\u2022 Decreased appetite
\n\u2022 Dry mouth
\n\u2022 Sleep disruption
\n\u2022 Dizziness
\n\u2022 Stomach ache
\n\u2022 Increased sweating
\n\u2022 Headache
\n\u2022 Nausea
\n\u2022 Weight loss
\nIrritability
\n
\nSerious side effects:
\n\u2022 Priapism
\n\u2022 Eyesight changes
\n\u2022 Blurred vision
\n<\/td>		Common side effects:
\n\u2022 Loss of appetite
\n\u2022 Anxiety
\n\u2022 Trouble sleeping
\n\u2022 Elevated heart rate
\n\u2022 Increased blood pressure
\n
\nSerious side effects:
\n\u2022 Blurred or changed vision
\n\u2022 Uncontrollable outbursts or tics
\n\u2022 Chest pain
\n\u2022 Fever
\n\u2022 Joint pain
\n\u2022 Allergic reaction
\n\u2022 Hives
\n\u2022 Swollen face or hands
\n\u2022 Trouble breathing<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Warnings For Use<\/strong><\/td>Contraindicated conditions:
\n\u2022 Heart or blood-pressure-related issues
\n\u2022 Mental health issues
\n\u2022 Circulation issues
\n\u2022 History of substance abuse
\n
\nAdverse drug interactions:
\n\u2022 Blood thinner medications
\n\u2022 Blood pressure medications
\n\u2022 Antidepressants
\n\u2022 Seizure medications
\n\u2022 Decongestants
\n
\n
\n<\/td>		Contraindicated conditions:
\n\u2022 Heart condition
\n\u2022 History of drug abuse
\n
\nAdverse drug interactions:
\n\u2022 Blood thinners
\n\u2022 Blood pressure medication
\n\u2022 Seizure medication
\n\u2022 Antidepressants
\n\u2022 Decongestants
\n
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\n

What is Concerta?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Concerta (active ingredient: methylphenidate) is a central nervous system stimulant similar to ADHD medications like Daytrana and Ritalin. This medication works by targeting the neurotransmitters in the brain that control focus, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Concerta is a federally scheduled controlled substance primarily prescribed to help combat the effects of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Forms and Dosages<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Concerta is a time-released, once-a-day tablet that lasts up to 10 hours. Doses come in 18 mg, 27 mg, 36 mg, 54 mg, and the max dosage of 72 mg. Adults normally start off with an 18 mg dose and increase potency until the desired effect is achieved. Concerta should not be crushed or chewed as it could induce serotonin syndrome, a dangerous condition that can cause severe damage and even death.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Concerta\u2019s unique delivery system, OROS (osmotically controlled release oral-delivery system), delivers 22% of its total medication load when the outer capsule dissolves shortly after being ingested. Three inner compartments slowly dissolve throughout the day at different times as the intestines absorb the chambers and release the medicine. One-sixth of the medication is never absorbed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ADHD sufferers should be vigilant when choosing their Concerta medication. Six formulations are currently on the market, with five of the formulations considered substandard by the medical community. The one formulation considered as the \u201cbranded generic\u201d is the best formulation. It can be spotted by its barrel shape, a tiny hole on one end where the medication bleeds out, and the manufacturer name: ALZA. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Conditions Treated<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Concerta is FDA approved for use in those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Sans insurance, a one-month brand-name supply of 36 mg Concerta tablets is between $250 and $300. You\u2019ll likely be able to find a generic supply of Concerta for approximately $60, but that price can vary depending on the pharmacy you choose. For accurate pricing information under your current health insurance plan, contact your provider\u2019s pharmacy department. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Side Effects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Concerta, because of its unique delivery system, does not retain as many side effects as other, more direct delivery methods found in immediate-release ADHD medications like Ritalin and Adderall IR. Common side effects of Concerta include but are not limited to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  • Decreased appetite<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Dry mouth<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Sleep disruption<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Dizziness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Stomach ache<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Increased sweating<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Headache<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Nausea<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Weight loss<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Irritability<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

    Severe but rare side effects of Concerta include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \n
    • Priapism<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Eyesight changes<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Blurred vision <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

      Warnings and Drug Interactions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

      Though Concerta is a Schedule II stimulant and a controlled substance, it has a low risk of addiction when taken as prescribed. However, misuse of Concerta can increase the likelihood of dependence and addiction. It is important to adhere to the prescribed dosage and follow the guidance of a healthcare professional to minimize these risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      When used responsibly, Concerta is considered safe and effective for its intended purpose. It is crucial to communicate any concerns or potential side effects to your healthcare provider, such as insomnia, increased heart rate, reduced appetite, or feelings of restlessness. By tracking your symptoms and reporting them to your provider, you reduce the likelihood of developing a dependence and ensure the medication’s benefits are maximized while minimizing any potential risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Before taking any kind of ADHD stimulant medication like Concerta, have a thorough and candid discussion with your healthcare provider about whether you\u2019ve experienced any of the following conditions in the past or are currently experiencing them:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \n
      • Heart or blood-pressure-related issues<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Mental illness or mental health issues<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Circulation issues<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Substance abuse<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

        Concerta may exacerbate certain conditions and react poorly with specific medications. For more information on Concerta\u2019s warnings and drug interactions, refer to this medication’s accompanying literature and speak with an ADHD specialist who can explain the benefits and negatives of taking this medication.<\/p>\n\n\n\t\t

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