Adult Dosing
Patients not taking methylphenidate
Immediate release tablets
- Start PO 2.5 mg bid
- Titrate: Increase in increments of 2.5-5 mg q7 days
- Max: 20 mg/day
Extended release capsules
- 10 mg Daily, may be increased by 10 mg after 1 wk
- Max: 40 mg/day
Patients currently taking methylphenidate
Immediate release tablets
- Starting dose is 1/2 of the methylphenidate dose, up to 10 mg bid
- Max: 20 mg/day
Extended release capsules
- Starting dose is 1/2 of the methylphenidate dose, up to 20 mg/day given as a single dose
Pediatric Dosing
Patients not taking methylphenidate
Immediate release tablets
- Child =>6 yrs: Start PO 2.5 mg bid
- Titrate: Increase in increments of 2.5-5 mg q7 days
- Max: 20 mg/day
Extended release capsules
- Child =>6 yrs: 5 mg daily; increased by 5 mg weekly to a maximum of 20 mg/day
Patients currently taking methylphenidate
Immediate release tablets
- Child =>6 yrs: Starting dose is 1/2 of the methylphenidate dose, up to 10 mg bid
- Max: 20 mg/day
Extended release capsules
- Child =>6 yrs: Starting dose is 1/2 of the methylphenidate dose, up to 20 mg/day given as a single dose
Note:
- Safety and efficacy in children < 6 yrs of age have not been established
[Outline]
See Supplemental Patient Information
- Give cautiously to patient with history of drug dependence or alcoholism. Chronic abuse can cause marked tolerance and psychological dependence with abnormal behavior. Frank psychotic episodes may occur, especially with parenteral abuse. During withdrawal from abusive use, provide careful supervision, as severe depression may occur [US Black Box Warning]
- Withdrawal after prolonged therapeutic use may unmask symptoms of underlying disorder that may require follow-up [US Black Box Warning]
- Extended release capsules should be consumed whole and should not be crushed or chewed. Alternatively contents may be sprinkled on applesauce and consumed immediately
- Monitor and assess for presence of cardiac disease. Perform ECG and 2D-Echo at baseline; periodic CBC, differential, and platelet counts in long term therapy
- Cases of painful and prolonged penile erections and priapism have been reported with methylphenidate. Immediate medical attention should be sought if signs or symptoms of painful or prolonged penile erections or priapism are observed
- Monitoring of height and weight in children ages 7-10 yrs is required
- Therapy is associated with peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s phenomenon. Signs and symptoms usually improve after reduction in dose or discontinuation of therapy
Cautions: Use cautiously in
- History of cardiovascular disease
- History of seizure disorder
- History of substance abuse
- Hyperthyroidism
- Presence of risk factors for cardiac disease
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychosis
- Long term Use
Supplemental Patient Information
- Instruct patients to report to their physician about any numbness, pain, skin color change, or sensitivity to temperature in fingers or toes
Pregnancy Category:C
Breastfeeding: Safety unknown. Use with caution.
US Trade Name(s)
US Availability
dexmethylphenidate (generic)
- TABS: 2.5, 5, 10 mg
- ECAPS: 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 40 mg
Focalin
Focalin XR
- ECAPS: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 mg
Canadian Trade Name(s)
Canadian Availability
UK Trade Name(s)
UK Availability
Focalin
Focalin XR
Australian Trade Name(s)
Australian Availability
[Outline]
Pricing data from www.DrugStore.com in U.S.A.
- Focalin XR 15 MG CP24 [Bottle] (NOVARTIS)
20 mg = $121.99
30 mg = $182.97 - Focalin XR 40 MG CP24 [Bottle] (NOVARTIS)
30 mg = $199.99
90 mg = $575.97 - Focalin 10 MG TABS [Bottle] (NOVARTIS)
20 mg = $36.97
30 mg = $55.46 - Focalin XR 30 MG CP24 [Bottle] (NOVARTIS)
20 mg = $126.99
30 mg = $187.97 - Dexmethylphenidate HCl 10 MG TABS [Bottle] (TEVA PHARMACEUTICALS USA)
30 mg = $43.99
90 mg = $119.96 - Focalin XR 5 MG CP24 [Bottle] (NOVARTIS)
20 mg = $116.99
30 mg = $173.22 - Dexmethylphenidate HCl 2.5 MG TABS [Bottle] (TEVA PHARMACEUTICALS USA)
20 mg = $21.99
30 mg = $31.48 - Focalin 5 MG TABS [Bottle] (NOVARTIS)
20 mg = $28.88
30 mg = $43.32 - Focalin XR 10 MG CP24 [Bottle] (NOVARTIS)
20 mg = $121.99
30 mg = $181.97
Warning: This pricing information is subject to change at the sole discretion of DS Pharmacy. For the most current and up-to-date pricing information, please visit drugstore.com.