Focalin Uses

Focalin is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). During large clinical trials, Focalin has been shown to help improve the behavior of children and teenagers who have ADHD, as well as to help them sit still and pay attention in the classroom. Focalin has not been approved for use in children who are less than six years old. At this time, there are a few off-label Focalin uses, such as treating adult ADHD, narcolepsy, and depression.

 

What Is Focalin Used For? -- An Overview

Focalin® (dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride) is a prescription medicine that has been licensed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
 
Using Focalin for ADHD
ADHD is a condition that involves difficulty paying attention, sitting still, and controlling behavior. In a child who has ADHD, these problems are worse than would be expected for a typical child of the same age. Usually, the ADHD symptoms must be present before the age of seven to qualify as ADHD. The symptoms must also affect school, work, or social life in a negative way to qualify as ADHD (see ADHD and School and Relationships and ADHD for more information).
 
Although ADHD is generally thought of as a problem in children, teenagers and adults can also have ADHD. Diagnosing ADHD in adults is different than diagnosing ADHD in children.
 
Large clinical trials have shown Focalin to be effective at helping children and teenagers who have ADHD. Focalin can help improve the behavior of these children and teenagers, as well as to help them sit still and pay attention in the classroom. Focalin is not approved for use in adults (see Focalin for Adults and Adult ADHD).
 
Any behavioral change involves a well-balanced ADHD treatment plan, including social, educational, and mental therapy (see Behavior Therapy for ADHD). If lifestyle changes alone are not effective at changing ADHD behavior, ADHD medications, such as Focalin, may be necessary.
 
(Focalin Uses Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;