Focalin XR
® (
dexmethylphenidate extended-release) is a prescription medication that is used for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (
ADHD). Focalin XR capsules are specially designed to release half of the medication immediately, and to release the second half of the medication after approximately four hours. As a result, the medication can be taken just once a day.
It is manufactured by Novartis Pharmaceuticals.
Focalin XR is a stimulant; but it has effects that are the opposite of what would be expected of a stimulant. While stimulants like caffeine can cause hyperactivity, Focalin XR has a calming effect. Although the exact way in which Focalin XR produces a calming effect is not known, it is known that it affects chemicals in the brain.
Focalin XR contains
dexmethylphenidate, which is very similar to
methylphenidate (the active component of
Concerta®,
Daytrana®,
Ritalin®, Metadate
®, and
Methylin®). In fact, methylphenidate is actually a mixture of dexmethylphenidate and levomethylphenidate. Of these two components, dexmethylphenidate is the more active one.
Focalin XR capsules contain tiny beads that contain the medication. Half of these are immediate-release beads, and the other half are delayed-release beads, which do not dissolve until they reach the small intestine (about four hours later). This allows Focalin XR to be taken just once a day (instead of twice a day).
There have been several studies looking at using
Focalin XR for
ADHD symptoms. Some of the results of these ADHD research studies are highlighted below:
ADHD in Children and Teenagers
In clinical studies, children with ADHD who took Focalin XR had significant behavior improvements, compared to children who did not take it. These behavior improvements were reported by teachers. In one study, no difference was seen between the teenagers who took it and the teenagers who did not -- though this is probably due to the small number of teenagers in this study.
Adult ADHD
Focalin XR has also been studied in people with
adult ADHD, and has been shown to be effective at treating symptoms of adult ADHD.
When and How to Take Focalin XR
Some general considerations for when and how to take the medication include:
- Focalin XR comes in capsule form. It should be taken once daily in the morning.
- The capsules contain tiny beads that release the medication slowly, so it is important to swallow Focalin XR whole (do not chew or crush it).
- For people who have difficultly swallowing, the capsules may be opened and the beads sprinkled on a spoonful of applesauce. The applesauce should be eaten right away and should not be chewed.
- You can take the medication with or without food. If it bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
- For Focalin XR to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
The dosage your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- Your age
- Other medications you have tried for ADHD
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may be currently taking.
As is the case with any medication, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with
Focalin XR. However, not everyone who takes it will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. When side effects do occur, they are often minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
The most common side effects of Focalin XR include:
Focalin XR can cause
high blood pressure in some people. Usually, this increase in
blood pressure is temporary and does not cause any problems. The medication can also increase the chance of
seizures and can make certain heart conditions and mental problems worse.
(Click Focalin XR Side Effects to learn about the specific side effects of this drug, including serious side effects to look out for. You can also read about other possible side effects by going to:
Drug Interactions With Focalin XR
Focalin XR can potentially interact with a number of other medicines.
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking
Focalin XR if you (or your child) have:
Also let your healthcare provider know if you are:
You should also tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
People who take too much Focalin XR may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Hyperactivity (trouble sitting still)
- Fast breathing
- Confusion
- Fever
- Muscle pains
- Shakiness
- Aggressiveness
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not really there).
If you happen to overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
The medicine should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture or heat.
Focalin XR capsules should be kept in an airtight container.
Keep Focalin XR and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your dose as scheduled, take your next dose as soon as you remember in the morning. If you do not remember until the afternoon, skip the dose; taking Focalin XR after morning may cause trouble sleeping at night. Do not take a double dose.
Focalin XR capsules are available in three strengths:
- Focalin XR 5 mg capsules
- Focalin XR 10 mg capsules
- Focalin XR 15 mg capsules.
