DoseCompass / Medications / Metadate CD
Metadate CD
methylphenidate ER · Methylphenidate class
Capsule-based extended-release methylphenidate with a 30/70 immediate-to-delayed split, front-loading more of the dose into the morning.
*Approximate U.S. cash price for a 30-day supply with a free discount card, mid-2026. Compare current prices on GoodRx.
Available strengths
10 mg · 20 mg · 30 mg · 40 mg · 50 mg · 60 mg
How long it lasts
Typical effective duration is 6–8 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 Metadate CD 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.
| Metadate CD | Adderall IR | Adderall XR | Vyvanse | Ritalin IR | Concerta | Focalin |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 mg | ≈ 6.7 † | ≈ 6.7 † | ≈ 16.7 † | ≈ 10 | ≈ 12 | ≈ 5 |
| 20 mg | ≈ 13.3 † | ≈ 13.3 † | ≈ 33.3 † | ≈ 20 | ≈ 24.1 | ≈ 10 |
| 30 mg | ≈ 20 † | ≈ 20 † | ≈ 50 † | ≈ 30 | ≈ 36.1 | ≈ 15 |
| 40 mg | ≈ 26.7 † | ≈ 26.7 † | ≈ 66.7 † | ≈ 40 | ≈ 48.2 | ≈ 20 |
| 50 mg | ≈ 33.3 † | ≈ 33.3 † | ≈ 83.3 † | ≈ 50 | ≈ 60.2 | ≈ 25 |
| 60 mg | ≈ 40 † | ≈ 40 † | ≈ 100 † | ≈ 60 | ≈ 72.3 | ≈ 30 |
All values ≈ mg/day, from published cross-titration references and product labeling. For a custom dose or frequency, use the interactive converter.
Common questions
What strengths does Metadate CD come in?
Metadate CD (methylphenidate ER) is available in: 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 mg.
How long does Metadate CD last?
Typical effective duration is 6–8 hours, though individual metabolism varies.
Is there a generic Metadate CD?
Yes. With a free discount card, a typical 30-day supply runs about $20–50 without insurance.
What is Metadate CD equivalent to?
As a total-daily-dose approximation, Metadate CD 40 mg is ≈ 26.7 mg Adderall XR, ≈ 66.7 mg Vyvanse, ≈ 40 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.