{"id":3089,"date":"2018-08-28T21:20:26","date_gmt":"2018-08-29T01:20:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=3089"},"modified":"2025-09-18T17:32:19","modified_gmt":"2025-09-18T21:32:19","slug":"concerta-vs-ritalin","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/concerta-vs-ritalin\/","title":{"rendered":"Concerta vs. Ritalin: Differences, similarities, and which is better for you"},"content":{"rendered":"

Drug overview & main differences<\/a> | Conditions treated<\/a> | Efficacy<\/a> | Insurance coverage and cost comparison<\/a> | Side effects<\/a> | Drug interactions<\/a> | Warnings<\/a> | FAQ<\/a><\/p>\n

If you or your child has been diagnosed with ADHD<\/a>, your healthcare provider may have mentioned trying ADHD medication as part of a comprehensive mental health treatment plan, including social, behavioral, and educational resources. ADHD is common<\/a>: 6.4 million children age 4 to 17 in the U.S. have been diagnosed with ADHD, and 4% of adults have ADHD.<\/p>\n

Concerta and Ritalin are two stimulant ADHD medications approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Both prescription drugs are indicated for ADHD (attention-deficit\/hyperactivity disorder) treatment. Both medications contain the same ingredient, methylphenidate. Concerta<\/a> contains a long-acting form of methylphenidate, while Ritalin<\/a> contains an immediate-release form of methylphenidate. Concerta and Ritalin work by acting on the CNS (central nervous system) to increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps improve ADHD symptoms such as concentration and alertness.<\/p>\n

Both drugs are classified as Schedule II drugs<\/a> by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), meaning that there is a high potential for drug abuse and dependence.<\/p>\n

Although Concerta and Ritalin are both stimulants that contain methylphenidate, they have some differences. Continue reading below to learn more about Concerta and Ritalin.<\/p>\n

What are the main differences between Concerta and Ritalin?<\/h2>\n

Concerta and Ritalin are both classified as stimulant medications, and both are available in brand-name and generic form. The generic name of Concerta is methylphenidate<\/a> (extended-release). Concerta<\/a> is designed to last for about 12 hours, and it is dosed once per day.<\/p>\n

The generic name of Ritalin is methylphenidate and is an immediate-release tablet. One dose of Ritalin<\/a> lasts about four hours, so it is dosed more often, usually two to three times per day.<\/p>\n

Other forms of Ritalin are longer-acting. Ritalin-LA is a long-acting capsule (available in brand and generic), and Ritalin-SR (available in generic) is a long-acting tablet. Ritalin LA has a bi-modal release. Half of the methylphenidate is released immediately, and the second half is released later. A dose of Ritalin LA lasts for about eight to 10 hours. A dose of Ritalin-SR lasts for about eight hours.<\/p>\n

The length of treatment with Concerta or Ritalin varies. Some patients take a \u201cdrug holiday<\/a>,\u201d where the medication is temporarily stopped, for example, during summer vacation when school is not in session. Your healthcare provider can help you decide if you or your child should take a drug holiday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Main differences between Concerta and Ritalin<\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
<\/td>\nConcerta<\/strong><\/td>\nRitalin<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Drug class<\/strong><\/td>\nStimulant<\/td>\nStimulant<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Brand\/generic status<\/strong><\/td>\nBrand and generic<\/td>\nBrand and generic<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What is the generic name?<\/strong><\/td>\nMethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release<\/td>\nMethylphenidate hydrochloride<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What form(s) does the drug come in?<\/strong><\/td>\nExtended-release tablet<\/td>\nTablet, extended-release capsule (Ritalin LA), extended-release tablet (Ritalin-SR)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What is the standard dosage?<\/strong><\/td>\n18, 36, 54, or 72 mg once daily in the morning (dosage depends on age, weight, and response to treatment)<\/td>\nChildren:
\n5 mg twice daily to begin, dosage may be increased slowly<\/p>\n

Adults:
\nAverage daily dose is 20 to 30 mg in divided doses 2 to 3 times daily (example: 10 mg given 3 times daily equals total daily dose of 30 mg)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

How long is the typical treatment?<\/strong><\/td>\nVaries: may be needed for extended periods but has not been studied for more than 7 weeks; consult healthcare provider<\/td>\nVaries: may be needed for extended periods; consult healthcare provider<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Who typically uses the medication?<\/strong><\/td>\nAges 6 to 65<\/td>\nAges 6 years to adult<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\n

Want the best price on Ritalin?<\/h3>\n

Sign up for Ritalin price alerts and find out when the price changes!<\/p>\n

Get price alerts<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Conditions treated by Concerta and Ritalin<\/h2>\n

Concerta and Ritalin are both indicated for ADHD treatment in children ages 6 years and older, adolescents<\/a>, and adults<\/a>. Ritalin is also indicated for narcolepsy. Concerta or Ritalin should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include therapy and educational intervention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n
Condition<\/strong><\/td>\nConcerta<\/strong><\/td>\nRitalin <\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children 6 years and older, adolescents, and adults up to age 65<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nYes (Ritalin manufacturer information does not specify a maximum age)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Narcolepsy<\/td>\nOff-label<\/a><\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Is Concerta or Ritalin more effective?<\/h2>\n

There are no studies that directly compare Concerta and immediate-release Ritalin. Clinical trials for Concerta<\/a> studied patients who took either Concerta, Ritalin, or placebo; however, the results only compared Concerta to placebo and did not include Ritalin. The results showed that Concerta was superior to placebo, but did not show results in relation to Ritalin.<\/p>\n

When comparing Concerta against Ritalin, remember that both drugs contain methylphenidate, so we are looking at the same drug. The difference lies in the way the drugs are dosed and how long they last. Concerta lasts about 12 hours and is dosed once daily in the morning, so it may be a better choice for someone who has to focus for many hours and does not want to have to take additional doses of medication. Ritalin, which works for about four hours, may be a better option for someone who just needs a few hours of medication coverage or someone who does not mind taking additional doses when needed.<\/p>\n

The most effective drug for you should be determined by your healthcare provider who can take into account your medical condition as well as your medical history and other medications you take that can interact with Concerta or Ritalin. Consult your prescriber for medical advice.<\/p>\n

\n

Want the best price on Concerta?<\/h3>\n

Sign up for Concerta price alerts and find out when the price changes!<\/p>\n

Get price alerts<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Coverage and cost comparison of Concerta vs. Ritalin<\/h2>\n

Concerta is not typically covered by Medicare Part D. It may be covered by insurance, typically in its generic form. The out-of-pocket cost for 30 Concerta 36 mg generic tablets can be more than $300. A SingleCare coupon<\/a> can reduce this cost to well under $150.<\/p>\n

Ritalin is generally covered by Medicare Part D and may be covered by insurance, usually in the generic form. The out-of-pocket cost of 60 Ritalin 10 mg generic tablets is about $85. This cost can be reduced to less than $25 with a SingleCare coupon at participating pharmacies<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Get the SingleCare prescription discount card<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
\u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\nConcerta<\/strong><\/td>\nRitalin<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typically covered by insurance?<\/strong><\/td>\nVaries<\/td>\nVaries<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typically covered by Medicare?<\/strong><\/td>\nNo<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Standard dosage<\/strong><\/td>\n30, 36 mg tablets<\/td>\n60, 10 mg tablets<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typical Medicare copay<\/strong><\/td>\n$230<\/td>\n$3-$48<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
SingleCare cost<\/strong><\/td>\n$130-$180<\/td>\n$23-$53<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Common side effects of Concerta vs. Ritalin<\/h2>\n

The most common side effects of Concerta are abdominal pain, decreased appetite, weight loss, headache, dry mouth, nausea, insomnia\/sleep problems, anxiety, dizziness, irritability, and hyperhidrosis (increased sweating). Ritalin has similar side effects, but the frequency percentages are not listed. This is not a full list of side effects. Serious side effects may occur. Consult your healthcare provider for a full list of adverse effects that can occur with Concerta or Ritalin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
\u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\nConcerta<\/strong><\/td>\nRitalin <\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Side effect<\/strong><\/td>\nApplicable?<\/strong><\/td>\nFrequency<\/strong><\/td>\nApplicable?<\/strong><\/td>\nFrequency<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Upper abdominal pain<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n\u00a06.2%<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nNot reported*<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Decreased appetite\/weight loss<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n\u22655%<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nNot reported<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Headache<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n\u22655%<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nNot reported<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Dry mouth<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n\u22655%<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nNot reported<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nausea<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n\u22655%<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nNot reported<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Irritability<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n\u22655%<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nNot reported<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Anxiety<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n\u22655%<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nNot reported<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Excess sweating<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n\u22655%<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nNot reported<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Vomiting<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n2.8%<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nNot reported<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Fever<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n2.2%<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nNot reported<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Upper respiratory infection<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n2.8%<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nNot reported<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Dizziness<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n1.9%<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nNot reported<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Insomnia<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n2.8%<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nNot reported<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cough<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n1.9%<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nNot reported<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

*Percentages not reported with Ritalin
\nSource: DailyMed (Concerta<\/a>), DailyMed (Ritalin<\/a>)<\/p>\n

Drug interactions of Concerta vs. Ritalin<\/h2>\n

Concerta or Ritalin should not be taken with MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) because the combination could cause a hypertensive<\/a> (high blood pressure) crisis. Concerta or Ritalin should be separated by an MAOI by at least 14 days. Concerta or Ritalin should be used with caution with vasopressor agents (medications that are used to increase blood pressure) because of the potential for an increase in blood pressure. Concerta or Ritalin may increase the levels of warfarin, certain anticonvulsants, and tricyclic or SSRI antidepressants. A dosage adjustment may be required if taken with Concerta or Ritalin. Concerta or Ritalin may decrease the effectiveness of diuretics or blood pressure medications. This is not a full list of drug interactions. Consult your healthcare provider for a full list of drug interactions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Drug<\/strong><\/td>\nDrug Class<\/strong><\/td>\nConcerta<\/strong><\/td>\nRitalin<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Phenelzine
\nRasagiline
\nSelegiline
\nTranylcypromine<\/td>\n		MAOI<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Dobutamine
\nEpinephrine
\nNorepinephrine
\nPhenylephrine<\/td>\n		Vasopressor agents<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Warfarin<\/td>\nAnticoagulant<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Citalopram
\nEscitalopram
\nFluoxetine
\nFluvoxamine
\nParoxetine
\nSertraline<\/td>\n		SSRI antidepressants<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Amitriptyline
\nDesipramine
\nImipramine
\nNortriptyline<\/td>\n		Tricyclic antidepressants<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Phenobarbital
\nPhenytoin
\nPrimidone<\/td>\n		Anticonvulsants<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Furosemide
\nHydrochlorothiazide<\/td>\n		Diuretics<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Amlodipine
\nAtenolol
\nDiltiazem
\nEnalapril
\nIrbesartan
\nLisinopril
\nLosartan
\nMetoprolol
\nOlmesartan<\/td>\n		Antihypertensives<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Warnings of Concerta and Ritalin<\/h2>\n

You will receive a medication guide every time you fill a prescription for Concerta or Ritalin, which contains warnings and information about side effects. Concerta and Ritalin both have a boxed warning<\/a>, which is the strongest warning required by the FDA. Because of the risk of abuse or dependence, patients should be assessed for the risk of abuse before being prescribed Concerta or Ritalin. Patients who take Concerta or Ritalin should be monitored for signs of abuse during treatment.<\/p>\n

Other warnings:<\/p>\n