Focalin Uses (Cont.)

How Focalin Works

Although Focalin is a stimulant, it has effects that are the opposite of what would be expected of a stimulant. While stimulants like caffeine can cause hyperactivity, Focalin has a calming effect. The exact way in which Focalin produces a calming effect is not known; but it is known that Focalin affects chemicals in the brain.
 
Focalin 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 Use in Young Children

Focalin has not been approved for use in children less than six years of age.
 

Off-Label Focalin Uses

On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend Focalin for treating something other than the condition(s) discussed above. This is called an "off-label" use. At this time, there are a few off-label Focalin uses, such as:
 

Pages:

Previous 1 2

Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;