Dexmethylphenidate

Generic name: dexmethylphenidate [ dex-METH-il-FEN-i-date ]
Brand names: Focalin, Focalin XR
Dosage forms: oral capsule, extended release (10 mg; 15 mg; 20 mg; 25 mg; 30 mg; 35 mg; 40 mg; 5 mg); oral tablet (10 mg; 2.5 mg; 5 mg)
Drug class:CNS stimulants

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 25, 2021. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is dexmethylphenidate?

Dexmethylphenidate is a stimulant that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Dexmethylphenidate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Stimulants have caused stroke, heart attack, and sudden death in people with high blood pressure, heart disease, or a heart defect.

Dexmethylphenidate may cause new or worsening psychosis (unusual thoughts or behavior), especially if you have a history of depression, mental illness, or bipolar disorder.

Call your doctor right away if you have: signs of heart problems--chest pain, feeling light-headed or short of breath; or signs of psychosis--paranoia, aggression, new thought or behavior problems, seeing or hearing things that are not real.

Dexmethylphenidate may be habit-forming. Tell your doctor if you have a history of drug or alcohol addiction. Keep the medication where others cannot get to it.

Before taking this medicine

You should not take dexmethylphenidate if you are allergic to dexmethylphenidate or methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta).

Stimulants have caused stroke, heart attack, and sudden...