Dexmethylphenidate
Focalin
CNS Stimulant (Methylphenidate-based)Schedule IIGeneric availableTDM data
Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride is a CNS stimulant. The mode of therapeutic action in ADHD is not known.
Compare Dexmethylphenidate →FDA-Approved Indications
- ADHD (adults; pediatric 6+)
Common Off-Label Uses
- Narcolepsy
What Sets This Drug Apart
- D-enantiomer of methylphenidate — approximately 2x more potent mg-for-mg than racemic methylphenidate
- 5 mg dexmethylphenidate is roughly equivalent to 10 mg methylphenidate; dose conversion is straightforward when switching
- Available in IR (5-6h) and XR (8-12h) formulations; adverse effect profile mirrors racemic methylphenidate
- Non-CYP metabolism (carboxylesterase CES1A1) — minimal drug-drug interaction potential via CYP pathway
Boxed Warning
ABUSE, MISUSE, AND ADDICTION