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Methylphenidate

Brand names: Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin (dexmethylphenidate), Daytrana

Methylphenidate is a stimulant that improves focus and lowers hyperactivity and impulsiveness in ADHD.

Brand namesRitalin, Concerta, Focalin (dexmethylphenidate), Daytrana
Type of medicineStimulant (ADHD medicine)
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It's a controlled substance. It comes in short-acting and long-acting forms, and as a patch.

What it's used for

  • ADHD in children and adults
  • Narcolepsy

How to take it

  • Take it in the morning (and early afternoon for short-acting forms) to avoid trouble sleeping.
  • Swallow long-acting tablets whole unless the label says otherwise.
  • Keep it locked up and never share it.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Less appetite
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Stomachache
  • Headache
  • Irritability
Call 911Chest pain, fainting, or shortness of breath
Call 911Weakness on one side or trouble speaking
Call your provider todaySeeing or hearing things, new paranoia, or mania
Call your provider todayFingers or toes that turn pale, blue, or painful (circulation problems)
Call 911An erection that's painful or lasts more than 4 hours

Warnings

  • Boxed warning: stimulants have a high risk of misuse and addiction. Keep them locked up and never share them.
  • Your provider will check height and weight in children, plus heart rate and blood pressure.
  • Tell your provider about heart problems or a family history of sudden death.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Never take within 14 days of an MAOI.
  • Decongestants, caffeine, and other stimulants add to heart and blood pressure effects.
  • Blood pressure medicines may work less well.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Talk with your provider about benefits and risks.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.