{"id":5582,"date":"2022-11-08T09:45:26","date_gmt":"2022-11-08T17:45:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cms.helloklarity.com\/?p=5582"},"modified":"2024-02-02T09:13:02","modified_gmt":"2024-02-02T17:13:02","slug":"ritalin-vs-focalin","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cms.helloklarity.com\/post\/ritalin-vs-focalin\/","title":{"rendered":"Ritalin vs. Focalin"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

If you’re in search of an ADHD medication to effectively manage your ADHD symptoms, you’ve likely encountered two commonly prescribed stimulants\u2014Ritalin and Focalin. Although both belong to the stimulant class of drugs, they differ in their characteristics and potential side effects. Understanding these distinctions is crucial to determine which medication may be more suitable for your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding the right medication for your ADHD <\/a>requires time, research, and open communication with an experienced medical provider specializing in ADHD treatment. This article aims to provide a comprehensive breakdown of Ritalin and Focalin, offering insights into their effects on the body and mind. By gaining a better understanding of these medications, you can have an informed discussion with a healthcare provider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you’re ready to take the next step toward finding the right ADHD medication, discover the convenience of online mental healthcare through Klarity. With us, you can connect virtually with licensed healthcare providers experienced in ADHD treatment. Our streamlined process has already helped 30,000+ people access high-quality mental healthcare from the comfort home\u2014and we can help you do the same. Schedule an appointment<\/a> today. With providers on Klarity, no insurance is needed.<\/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>Ritalin<\/th>Focalin<\/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 dexmethylphenidate<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Form(s) of the Drug<\/strong><\/td>Immediate-release and extended-release tablets<\/td>Immediate-release tablets; Extended-release capsules<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Standard Dosage<\/strong><\/td>Standard tablet dosages:
\r\n\u2022 5mg
\r\n\u2022 10mg
\r\n\u2022 20mg
\r\n\u2022 40mg
\r\n
\r\n<\/td>		2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg immediate-release tablets;
\r\n5 mg to 35 mg extended-release capsules
\r\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Conditions Treated<\/strong><\/td>FDA-approved uses:
\r\n\u2022 ADHD
\r\n\u2022 Narcolepsy<\/td>		FDA-approved uses:
\r\n\u2022 ADHD
\r\n
\r\nOff-label uses:
\r\n\u2022 Narcolepsy<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cost<\/strong><\/td>Brand-name Ritalin:
\r\n\u2022 $95 to $127 for a 30-day supply
\r\n
\r\nGeneric form (methylphenidate):
\r\n\u2022 $50 for a one-month supply
\r\n<\/td>		Generic form (dexmethylphenidate):
\r\n\u2022 $22 for 30, 2.5 mg tablets
\r\n\u2022 $766 for 60, 35mg extended-release capsules<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Side-Effects<\/strong><\/td>Common side effects:
\r\n\u2022 Loss of appetite
\r\n\u2022 Anxiety
\r\n\u2022 Trouble sleeping
\r\n\u2022 Elevated heart rate
\r\n\u2022 Increased blood pressure
\r\n
\r\nSerious side effects:
\r\n\u2022 Blurred or changed vision
\r\n\u2022 Uncontrollable outbursts or tics
\r\n\u2022 Chest pain
\r\n\u2022 Fever
\r\n\u2022 Joint pain
\r\n \u2022 Allergic reaction
\r\n \u2022 Hives
\r\n \u2022 Swollen face or hands
\r\n \u2022 Trouble breathing
\r\n<\/td>		Trouble sleeping
\r\n\u2022 Nausea
\r\n\u2022 Stomach pain, headache
\r\n\u2022 Nervousness
\r\n\u2022 Loss of appetite
\r\n\u2022 \u2022 Weight loss
\r\nDizziness
\r\n
\r\nSerious side-effects:
\r\n\u2022 Signs of blood flow problems in the fingers or toes
\r\n\u2022 Unusual wounds
\r\n\u2022 Irregular heartbeat
\r\n\u2022 Behavior changes
\r\n\u2022 Uncontrolled muscle movements
\r\n\u2022 Sudden verbal outbursts
\r\nVision changes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Warnings For Use<\/strong><\/td>Contraindicated conditions:
\r\n\u2022 Heart condition
\r\n\u2022 History of drug abuse
\r\n
\r\nDrug interactions:
\r\n\u2022 Blood thinners
\r\n\u2022 Blood pressure medication
\r\n\u2022 Seizure medication
\r\n\u2022 Antidepressants
\r\n\u2022 Decongestants
\r\n<\/td>		Warnings:
\r\n\u2022 May be habit-forming
\r\n\u2022 Effectiveness decreases over time
\r\n\u2022 Interactions with other drugs\u2014consult a doctor before use
\r\n
\r\nDrug interactions:
\r\n\u2022 Blood pressure medication
\r\n\u2022 Antidepressants<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\n

Are Ritalin and Focalin the Same Thing?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ritalin (methylphenidate hydrochloride) and Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) are similar medications that stimulate the central nervous system. They treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

These medications work by increasing natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain. These chemicals\u2014dopamine and norepinephrine\u2014help improve mental focus, organization, and attention and also help control impulsive behaviors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since these two medications come from the same class of drugs, they have a similar mechanism of action on the brain and tend to share many side effects. However, the chemical differences between the two lead to certain differences you\u2019ll want to be aware of.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The main difference between Ritalin and Focalin is that Focalin has fewer negative side effects than Ritalin. However, Focalin is more expensive than Ritalin. As a result, Ritalin is more commonly prescribed. Medical providers often suggest Focalin when Ritalin\u2019s side effects are too invasive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Ritalin is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that blocks the reuptake of two neurotransmitters\u2014dopamine and norepinephrine\u2014back into the brain\u2019s neurons (a type of brain cell). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For brain cells to communicate effectively, these neurotransmitters need to be readily available in the spaces between the neurons, called synapses. CNS stimulants like Ritalin prevent neurons from reabsorbing dopamine and norepinephrine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This process leaves an abundance of dopamine and norepinephrine in the synaptic gap, allowing the brain to function normally. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Ritalin (methylphenidate) is used to treat both ADHD and narcolepsy. It is available in two different forms, short-acting and long-acting that vary in the onset and duration of action of the medication. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Short-acting Ritalin is available as a tablet, chewable tablet, or liquid. Effects can be seen within 30 minutes and last roughly 3-5 hours. Depending on the prescription and the medical provider\u2019s instructions, short-acting Ritalin can be taken as needed throughout the day, 30 to 45 minutes before meals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  • Pediatric dosing: the initial dosing starts at 5 mg twice daily and can be increased up to 60 mg per day. The medication should be slowly titrated, increasing 5-10 mg\/day at weekly intervals. Some patients require three doses per day. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Adult dosing: the typical dose for adults is between 20-30 mg per day, split between two doses 8-12 hours apart. Some patients may require a 40-60 mg dose per day, which should also be slowly increased weekly. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

    Long-acting Ritalin is available in tablets, chewable tablets, oral disintegrating tablets, capsules, oral liquid, and a patch. The various forms have different onset and duration of action, but overall, effects are typically seen within the first hour of consumption and can last up to 12 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \n
    • The extended-release capsules come in 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, and 60 mg doses.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

      What Ritalin Treats<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

      Ritalin treats the symptoms of ADHD by increasing the supply of dopamine and norepinephrine in the synapses of the brain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Norepinephrine helps the brain focus, think more clearly, and operate faster. Dopamine triggers the brain’s reward center and is associated with euphoria or feelings of well-being. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Because of these effects, Ritalin is effective at treating the following symptoms of ADHD:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \n
      • Absent-mindedness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Forgetfulness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Problems focusing<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Problems staying on task<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Restlessness or difficulty staying still<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Impulsive thoughts and behaviors<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

        What is the Price of Ritalin?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        Generic Ritalin, called methylphenidate, ranges between $8 and $30 for 60 tablets, which is a 30-day supply. This medication is generally less expensive than Focalin. With medical insurance, the copay for generic Ritalin is usually a few dollars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

        CNS stimulants produce feelings of euphoria and heightened alertness. People often report feeling excited, alert, and energized. However, people also report feeling irritated, agitated, and anxious. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Here is a more complete list of associated side effects: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

          \n
        • Headache<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Anxiety<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Nervousness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Agitation<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Sweating<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Nausea<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Vomiting<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Insomnia<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Appetite loss<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Stomach pain<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Skin rash<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Numbness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Cold feeling in extremities (hands and feet<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • \u201cPins and needles\u201d feeling<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Dizziness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Vision problems<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Increased heart rate<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

          Warnings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

          Ritalin is a federally controlled substance (Schedule II stimulant) due to the high potential for abuse of the medication or dependence during long-term use. It is important to keep this medication in a safe place to prevent misuse or abuse. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Taking a higher dosage of Ritalin or taking it more frequently than prescribed can result in physical or psychological dependence. Long-term abuse can cause cardiovascular issues, psychological damage, and a range of other health issues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Controlled substances like Ritalin are strictly intended for use under the supervision of a healthcare professional. The best way to avoid dependence is to take Ritalin as prescribed and meet with your healthcare provider regularly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Additionally, selling or giving away Ritalin to someone not prescribed this medication is dangerous and against the law in the United States. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Discontinue the medication and call a healthcare provider immediately if you begin to experience chest pain, lightheadedness, or difficulty breathing while taking stimulant medications. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

          In addition, stimulants may cause new or worsening psychosis, especially in patients with a history of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Call a healthcare provider immediately if you have signs of psychosis, including increased aggression, paranoia, behavioral issues, or hallucinations, such as seeing or hearing things that may not be real. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

          You should not start Ritalin if you have the following: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

            \n
          • Underlying heart issues or severe high blood pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Glaucoma <\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Hyperthyroidism or an overactive thyroid gland <\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • A personal or family history of Tourette\u2019s syndrome or tics (involuntary muscle twitching)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

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

            Tell your healthcare provider if you are prescribed or use medications for: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

              \n
            • Opioid medications <\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Herbal supplements <\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Depression or mental illness <\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Migraine headache <\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Parkinson\u2019s disease <\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Antibiotics <\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Prevention of nausea or vomiting <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

              Several medications interact with methylphenidate and can cause serotonin syndrome, a serious medical condition. Signs and symptoms include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                \n
              • Altered mental status: agitation, confusion, anxiety, delirium, coma <\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Autonomic dysfunction: high blood pressure, fast heart rate, sweating, overheating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Neuromuscular abnormalities: tremor, exaggerated reflexes, muscle rigidity, involuntary movements<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Serious complications: breakdown of muscle, metabolic acidosis, kidney or respiratory failure, seizures, and even death <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                Do not use Ritalin if you have previously used an MAO inhibitor in the past two weeks, as a dangerous drug interaction may occur. MAO inhibitors include but are not limited to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  \n
                • Isocarboxazid<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Metaxalone<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Procarbazine<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Safinamide<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Selegiline<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Phenelzine<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Linezolid<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Tranylcypromine<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Methylene blue injections<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\t\t
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