Educational reference — not medical advice · Verify all medication changes with your prescriber

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Focalin XR

dexmethylphenidate ER · Methylphenidate class

Extended-release dexmethylphenidate covering 8–12 hours, with one of the widest strength ranges of any stimulant for precise titration.

ClassMethylphenidate class
Generic availableYes
Typical duration8–12 h
Est. monthly cost*$35–85

*Approximate U.S. cash price for a 30-day supply with a free discount card, mid-2026. Compare current prices on GoodRx.

Available strengths

5 mg · 10 mg · 15 mg · 20 mg · 25 mg · 30 mg · 35 mg · 40 mg

How long it lasts

Typical effective duration is 8–12 hours, though metabolism, sleep, and food timing move this meaningfully for individuals. See how it compares to every other product on the duration chart.

Approximate dose equivalents

Every marketed Focalin XR strength translated into five common alternatives (total-daily-dose basis). Cross-class figures (†) use the rough ~2:1 amphetamine↔methylphenidate heuristic and are the least precise.

Focalin XRAdderall IRAdderall XRVyvanseRitalin IRConcertaFocalin
5 mg≈ 6.7 ≈ 6.7 ≈ 16.7 ≈ 10≈ 12≈ 5
10 mg≈ 13.3 ≈ 13.3 ≈ 33.3 ≈ 20≈ 24.1≈ 10
15 mg≈ 20 ≈ 20 ≈ 50 ≈ 30≈ 36.1≈ 15
20 mg≈ 26.7 ≈ 26.7 ≈ 66.7 ≈ 40≈ 48.2≈ 20
25 mg≈ 33.3 ≈ 33.3 ≈ 83.3 ≈ 50≈ 60.2≈ 25
30 mg≈ 40 ≈ 40 ≈ 100 ≈ 60≈ 72.3≈ 30
35 mg≈ 46.7 ≈ 46.7 ≈ 116.7 ≈ 70≈ 84.3≈ 35
40 mg≈ 53.3 ≈ 53.3 ≈ 133.3 ≈ 80≈ 96.4≈ 40

All values ≈ mg/day, from published cross-titration references and product labeling. For a custom dose or frequency, use the interactive converter.

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Common questions

What strengths does Focalin XR come in?

Focalin XR (dexmethylphenidate ER) is available in: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 mg.

How long does Focalin XR last?

Typical effective duration is 8–12 hours, though individual metabolism varies.

Is there a generic Focalin XR?

Yes. With a free discount card, a typical 30-day supply runs about $35–85 without insurance.

What is Focalin XR equivalent to?

As a total-daily-dose approximation, Focalin XR 25 mg is ≈ 33.3 mg Adderall XR, ≈ 83.3 mg Vyvanse, ≈ 50 mg/day methylphenidate (Ritalin). These are discussion figures from published cross-titration references — cross-class conversions are rougher, and actual switches are titrated by your prescriber.

ReminderEducational reference, not medical advice. Dosing, switching, and stopping decisions belong with your prescriber.

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