Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride
Pronunciation: (dex-meth-il-FEN-i-date).
- Generic name
- dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride
- Brand names
- Addwize, Focalin XR, Focalin, Attentrol
- Drug class
- Central Nervous System (CNS) Stimulant
Availability and supply rules vary by country
Trade names by country: United States
Australia: · Full directory
What dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride works
Dexmethylphenidate is the d-threo-enantiomer of racemic methylphenidate. It acts as a central nervous system stimulant by blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine into presynaptic neurons, thereby increasing their synaptic concentrations. This leads to improved attention and reduced impulsivity and hyperactivity in patients with ADHD. (1)
What dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride is used for
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) (2)
Before taking dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride
Do not take / not appropriate for
- marked anxiety, tension, agitation, glaucoma, tics or family history of Tourette’s syndrome, and use with MAO inhibitors within 14 days. (Contraindication) (2)
Tell your clinician about
(2)How to take dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride
- General Instructions: Take dexmethylphenidate exactly as prescribed, usually once or twice daily. Do not increase your dose or take it more often than directed.. Adult Dosing: Typical starting dose for adults is 2.5 mg twice daily, with adjustments as needed. Maximum recommended dose is 20 mg per day.. Pediatric Dosing: For children (6 years and older), the usual starting dose is 2.5 mg twice daily. Dose may be increased by 2.5-5 mg increments at weekly intervals.. Administration: Tablets should be taken with or without food. Extended-release capsules can be swallowed whole or opened and sprinkled on applesauce (do not chew).. When To Stop: Do not stop taking dexmethylphenidate suddenly without consulting your doctor. Your doctor may recommend periodic breaks to assess the need for continued therapy.. Storage: Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician. (2)
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is late in the day to avoid insomnia. Do not take an extra dose to make up for it.
Overdose
In case of overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms may include vomiting, agitation, tremors, muscle twitching, confusion, hallucinations, sweating, flushing, headache, rapid heartbeat, and seizures. (2)
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Abdominal pain
Incidence: Reported in about 15% of pediatric patients in clinical trials (vs 6% with placebo)
Nausea
Incidence: Reported in about 9% of pediatric patients in clinical trials (vs 1% with placebo)
Reduced appetite
Incidence: Reported in about 6% of pediatric patients in clinical trials (vs 1% with placebo)
Fever
Incidence: Reported in about 5% of pediatric patients in clinical trials (vs 1% with placebo)
Serious warnings
BOXED WARNING — serious
Symptoms: BOXED WARNING: Dexmethylphenidate has a high potential for abuse and misuse, which can lead to substance use disorder. Misuse and abuse of this and other CNS stimulants can result in overdose and death, and this risk is increased with higher doses or unapproved methods of administration such as snorting or injection. Your clinician will assess your risk of abuse before prescribing and monitor for signs of abuse and dependence during treatment.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
May increase blood pressure and heart rate — serious
Symptoms: May increase blood pressure and heart rate; monitor regularly. Risk of abuse and dependence; use only as prescribed. May worsen existing mental health conditions. Can cause serious cardiovascular events, including sudden death, in patients with underlying heart conditions. Not recommended for use in children under 6 years old.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Contraindications recorded in the clinician database — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications recorded in the clinician database: Contraindications include marked anxiety, tension, agitation, glaucoma, tics or family history of Tourette’s syndrome, and use with MAO inhibitors within 14 days. Use with caution in patients with a history of substance abuse, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or psychiatric disorders.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded interactions | Dexmethylphenidate can interact with MAO inhibitors, certain antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and other stimulants. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid dangerous interactions. | (1) |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Pregnancy
No drug-associated birth defect risk has been identified from published studies of methylphenidate use in pregnancy, though animal studies showed delayed skeletal development at high doses. Because human data remain limited, discuss the potential risks and benefits of continuing dexmethylphenidate during pregnancy with the clinician managing your care. (2)
Breastfeeding
Dexmethylphenidate passes into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, your clinician can advise on monitoring the nursing infant for agitation, trouble sleeping, and reduced weight gain, and on whether continuing the medicine is appropriate for your situation. (2)
Children
Frequency: Once daily in the morning. Weight Based: Not established for weight-based dosing; initial dose is 2.5 mg for children aged 6 to 17 years.. Max Daily Dose: 20 mg for children aged 6 to 17 years. Max Single Dose: 10 mg for children aged 6 to 17 years. Age Restrictions: Safety and effectiveness not established in children under 6 years of age. (2)
Renal_impairment
The FDA label reports no clinical experience with dexmethylphenidate in patients with kidney or liver problems. Because the kidneys are not a major route for clearing this medicine from the body, kidney impairment is expected to have little effect on its levels, and no specific dose adjustment is given. The label gives the same "no experience" statement for liver impairment. Discuss any kidney or liver disease with the clinician managing your ADHD treatment before starting or continuing dexmethylphenidate. (2)
Hepatic_impairment
The FDA label reports no clinical experience with dexmethylphenidate in patients with kidney or liver problems. Because the kidneys are not a major route for clearing this medicine from the body, kidney impairment is expected to have little effect on its levels, and no specific dose adjustment is given. The label gives the same "no experience" statement for liver impairment. Discuss any kidney or liver disease with the clinician managing your ADHD treatment before starting or continuing dexmethylphenidate. (2)
Monitoring
(2)Storage
Store between 68-77°F (20-25°C) in a tightly closed, light-resistant container, away from moisture and heat, and out of reach of children. Because this is a controlled substance, dispose of unused or expired medicine through a DEA-authorized collection site or medication take-back program rather than household trash.
Study the drug class: CNS stimulants and ADHD agents
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
General
Indication: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Dose summary: Initial dose is 10 mg once daily in the morning; may increase by 10 mg weekly based on clinical response.
Renal context: The FDA label states there is no clinical experience with dexmethylphenidate in patients with renal impairment, but because renal clearance is not an important route of methylphenidate elimination, renal impairment is expected to have little effect on its pharmacokinetics; no specific dose adjustment is given. The label similarly reports no experience in patients with hepatic impairment. Methylphenidate is not metabolized by cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoenzymes to a clinically relevant extent, so CYP inducers/inhibitors are not expected to meaningfully affect its levels. (1) (2)
Frequently asked questions
What is dexmethylphenidate used for?
Dexmethylphenidate is primarily used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, adolescents, and adults.
How quickly does dexmethylphenidate work?
Immediate-release tablets usually begin to work within 30 to 60 minutes, while extended-release capsules may take slightly longer.
Can dexmethylphenidate be addictive?
Yes, dexmethylphenidate has a potential for abuse and dependence, especially if not used as prescribed.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is late in the day. Do not take an extra dose to make up for it.
Are there any foods or drinks I should avoid?
Avoid alcohol and large amounts of caffeine, as these can increase side effects. Take the medication with or without food as directed.
Can I stop taking dexmethylphenidate suddenly?
Do not stop taking dexmethylphenidate abruptly without consulting your doctor, as withdrawal symptoms or worsening of ADHD symptoms may occur.
Is dexmethylphenidate safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
No drug-associated birth defect risk has been identified from published human studies, though animal studies showed delayed skeletal development, and the medicine passes into breast milk. Because human safety data remain limited, discuss the risks and benefits of continuing dexmethylphenidate during pregnancy or while breastfeeding with the clinician managing your care.
What happens if I take too much Dexmethylphenidate?
Taking too much Dexmethylphenidate can lead to serious symptoms such as agitation, tremors, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, and seizures. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate emergency medical attention. Do not hesitate to call 911 or your local emergency services, as prompt treatment is crucial.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Dexmethylphenidate?
It is generally not recommended to consume alcohol while taking Dexmethylphenidate. Alcohol can intensify the side effects of CNS stimulants, potentially leading to increased dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired judgment. Combining them can also mask the effects of alcohol or the medication, increasing the risk of adverse events and potentially dangerous situations.
Is Dexmethylphenidate safe during pregnancy?
No drug-associated birth defect risk has been identified from published human studies of methylphenidate use in pregnancy, though animal studies showed delayed skeletal development at high doses. Because human data remain limited, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider to determine the safest course of action for both you and your baby.
What is the mechanism of action of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride?
Dexmethylphenidate is the d-threo-enantiomer of racemic methylphenidate. It acts as a central nervous system stimulant by blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine into presynaptic neurons, thereby increasing their synaptic concentrations. This leads to improved attention and reduced impulsivity and hyperactivity in patients with ADHD. (1)
What is the generic name of Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride?
The generic name is dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride. It is sold under brand names including Addwize, Focalin XR, Focalin, Attentrol.
What class of drug is dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride?
Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride is classed as: Central Nervous System (CNS) Stimulant.
References
- MedGuideGlobal clinician-authored medicine record for dexmethylphenidateMedGuideGlobal · not_applicable · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 1
- FOCALIN (dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride) tablet — Consumer InformationU.S. National Library of Medicine, DailyMed · United States · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 2
- DEXMETHYLPHENIDATE HYDROCHLORIDE CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE [TEVA PHARMACEUTICALS USA, INC.] — US prescribing information (DailyMed SPL)U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 3
- Dexmethylphenidate — patient drug information (MedlinePlus)U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 4
- AZSTARYS — FDA approval record (Drugs@FDA NDA212994)U.S. Food and Drug Administration · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 5
- dexmethylphenidate — RxNorm normalized drug concept (RXCUI 352372)U.S. National Library of Medicine (RxNorm) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 6
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.
Priority countries
United States
- Focalin5 mg, 30 mg, 10 mg, 35 mg, 25 mg, 40 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg · sandoz inc