DoseCompass / Medications / Ritalin / Methylin (IR)
Ritalin / Methylin (IR)
methylphenidate · Methylphenidate class
The original ADHD stimulant and still the cheapest option on the market. Short 3–5 hour doses give total control over coverage — at the cost of redosing through the day.
*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 · 20 mg
How long it lasts
Typical effective duration is 3–5 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 Ritalin / Methylin (IR) 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.
| Ritalin / Methylin (IR) | Adderall IR | Adderall XR | Vyvanse | Concerta | Focalin |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 mg | ≈ 3.3 † | ≈ 3.3 † | ≈ 8.3 † | ≈ 6 | ≈ 2.5 |
| 10 mg | ≈ 6.7 † | ≈ 6.7 † | ≈ 16.7 † | ≈ 12 | ≈ 5 |
| 20 mg | ≈ 13.3 † | ≈ 13.3 † | ≈ 33.3 † | ≈ 24.1 | ≈ 10 |
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 Ritalin / Methylin (IR) come in?
Ritalin / Methylin (IR) (methylphenidate) is available in: 5, 10, 20 mg.
How long does Ritalin / Methylin (IR) last?
Typical effective duration is 3–5 hours, though individual metabolism varies.
Is there a generic Ritalin / Methylin?
Yes. With a free discount card, a typical 30-day supply runs about $9–25 without insurance.
What is Ritalin / Methylin (IR) equivalent to?
As a total-daily-dose approximation, Ritalin / Methylin (IR) 10 mg is ≈ 6.7 mg Adderall XR, ≈ 16.7 mg Vyvanse. These are discussion figures from published cross-titration references — cross-class conversions are rougher, and actual switches are titrated by your prescriber.