Focalin

(dexmethylphenidate)

●●●●●
3.3/ 5 average rating with 141 reviewsforFocalin
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Treats attention deficit disorder.

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Our bottom line

Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) effectively treats ADHD, and is usually recommended if first-line ADHD medications don't work for you.

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Quick facts about Focalin
  • Drug class: Mental health
  • Rx status: Prescription only
  • Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (dexmethylphenidate)

Upsides

  • Effectively treats ADHD in children and adults.
  • Extended release capsules can be opened and sprinkled in applesauce for people who don't like swallowing pills.
  • The extended release pill is available in many strengths and allows for personalized dosing.
  • Available as a generic, so it should be reasonably priced.
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What to expect from Focalin, on one page

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People’s experience with Focalin

141reviews so far. What do you think?

Downsides

  • Not carried by all pharmacies and may need to be special ordered for you.
  • Decreased appetite in children may affect their growth.
  • Requires a new prescription from your doctor every month so it may be a hassle for some people.
  • Has the potential for abuse, misuse, and dependence.
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What to expect from Focalin, on one page

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How it works

Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) is an amphetamine stimulant that acts on the brain to increase attention and focus.

Quick facts about Focalin
  • Drug class: Mental health
  • Rx status: Prescription only
  • Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (dexmethylphenidate)

Used for

Dosage forms

  • Pill
  • Extended release
People’s experience with Focalin

141reviews so far. What do you think?

Prices and coupons

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What to expect when you take Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) for ADHD

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  • First few hoursHours
    First few daysDays
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  • Effectiveness
  • Starts to kick in
    Full effects
  • First few hoursHours
    First few daysDays
    First few weeksWeeks
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  • Possible side effects
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Headache
  • Decreased appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Physical dependence
  • Anxiety
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Side effect rates for Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)

Risks and Warnings for Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)

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    • Higher risk if:
    • › History of substance abuse

    Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) has a risk of abuse and dependence. Take Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) exactly as prescribed by your doctor and do not stop taking or change dose without consultation. Talk to your doctor about your history of substance abuse and whether Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) is right for you.

    This is a black box warning. The FDA requires this warning when there is a significant risk of serious or life-threatening effects that anyone taking the drug should consider.

Means that some groups have a high risk of experiencing this side effect

Common concerns from people taking Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)

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Price
  • Available as a generic, so it should be reasonably priced.
Alcohol
  • Don't take Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) with alcohol, recreational drugs, or mind-altering medications due to potentially life-threatening side effects.
Food
  • Worth it
    Worked well
    Some hassle
    Reviewed Focalinon 7/3/2017Take it early with big breakfast, take melatonin before bedtime.
    41
    Woman
    Two years or more
    ADHD