Focalin
(dexmethylphenidate)
Treats attention deficit disorder.
Our bottom line
Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) effectively treats ADHD, and is usually recommended if first-line ADHD medications don't work for you.
- 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
Download Fact Sheet
141Downsides
- 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
Download Fact SheetFocalin (dexmethylphenidate) is an amphetamine stimulant that acts on the brain to increase attention and focus.
- Drug class: Mental health
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (dexmethylphenidate)
Used for
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Extended release
Prices and coupons
Skip prices section. Skip to what to expect section.- CostcoGet free coupon$67.40
- Get free coupon
$72.35
What to expect when you take Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) for ADHD
Skip what to expect section. Skip to side effects section.- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Effectiveness
- Starts to kick inFull effects
- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Possible side effects
- Difficulty sleeping
- Headache
- Decreased appetite
- Weight loss
- Physical dependence
- Anxiety
Side effect rates for Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)
Risks and Warnings for Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.- 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.
Common concerns from people taking Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)
Final section. Do you want to return to drug navigation?- Available as a generic, so it should be reasonably priced.
- Don't take Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) with alcohol, recreational drugs, or mind-altering medications due to potentially life-threatening side effects.
- Worth itSome hassleReviewed Focalinon 7/3/2017Take it early with big breakfast, take melatonin before bedtime.41WomanTwo years or moreADHD