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Methylphenidate Extended Release
A healthcare provider may prescribe methylphenidate extended release to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or narcolepsy. There are several different forms of this drug, and there are important differences between the products. The medication comes in a tablet or capsule form, depending on the particular product. It is usually taken by mouth once daily in the morning. As with any medication, there are potential side effects with this drug, including a loss of appetite, nervousness, and insomnia.
Methylphenidate is a prescription medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It is available in many different forms, including long-acting extended release forms. Methylphenidate extended release is available as the following products:
Below is a table of some of the important differences between the methylphenidate extended release products. Notice that not all are approved for adult ADHD. Metadate ER and Ritalin SR are not specifically approved for adult ADHD, although the exact approved age range was not reported.
Table: Methylphenidate Extended Release Differences
Approved age range for ADHD
|
Approved for narcolepsy
|
Taken once a day
|
|
Concerta
|
6 to 65
|
X
|
|
Metadate CD
|
6 to 15
|
X
|
|
Metadate ER
|
6 to ?
|
X
|
X
|
Ritalin LA
|
6 to 12
|
X
|
|
Ritalin SR
|
6 to ?
|
X
|
X
|
Concerta
Concerta is a tablet that is released in two stages: the outer part of the tablet dissolves quickly and releases an immediate dose of Concerta. The inner part releases the rest of the medication slowly over time.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD