Dexmethylphenidate
Dexmethylphenidate is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain that contribute to impulse control and hyperactivity. This medication is available in immediate-release and extended-release formulations for both children and adults.
Dexmethylphenidate is a CNS stimulant used to treat ADHD by helping improve focus, attention, and behavior control.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N06BA11
- RxNorm
- 352372
- Generic
- Dexmethylphenidate
- Class
- atc-n06
- Brands
- Azstarys, Focalin
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule, tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 10mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 5mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 5mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks; discuss with healthcare provider
regular fetal monitoring and ultrasound assessments
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second third trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only if benefits outweigh risks; consider discontinuation near term
fetal growth monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedinguse lowest effective dose
monitor infant for irritability, decreased appetite, and sleep disturbances; consider pumping and discarding milk for 2-4 hours after dose
observe infant for adverse effects
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
under 6 yearsnot recommended
not approved for children under 6 years; alternative treatments should be considered
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
6 17 yearsstart with low dose and titrate slowly
approved for ADHD in children 6 years and older; monitor growth, appetite, and cardiac function
regular monitoring of height, weight, blood pressure, and heart rate
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
65 years and olderstart with lowest dose
use with caution due to limited data in elderly; assess cardiovascular risk before initiating
regular cardiac monitoring and blood pressure checks
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severe renal impairmentreduce dose by 50%
use with caution; not extensively studied in renal impairment
monitor renal function and adjust dose accordingly
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
moderate to severereduce dose by 50%
use with caution; drug is metabolized in liver
monitor liver function and adjust dose as needed
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Drug class
Dexmethylphenidate is the d-enantiomer of methylphenidate, classified as a central nervous system stimulant
Common uses
Primary therapeutic indication for Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin, Azstarys)
Controlled substance schedule
Dexmethylphenidate has high potential for abuse with severe psychological or physical dependence
FDA approval year
Initial FDA approval for Dexmethylphenidate
Dexmethylphenidate is primarily indicated for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children ages 6-12, adolescents, and adults. It may be used as part of a comprehensive treatment program that includes psychological, educational, and social measures.
As the d-enantiomer of methylphenidate, dexmethylphenidate is a CNS stimulant that blocks the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. The exact therapeutic mechanism in ADHD is not fully understood, but it is believed to improve attention and reduce impulsive behavior.
Dexmethylphenidate has a high potential for abuse and dependence. Common side effects include decreased appetite, insomnia, headache, and anxiety. It should not be used in patients with glaucoma, tics, or those taking MAO inhibitors. Extended-release formulations should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy