What Is Azstarys (Dexmethylphenidate/Serdexmethylphenidate)? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Azstarys is a once-daily prescription stimulant medication for ADHD that offers a unique pharmacological approach. If you or your child has been prescribed Azstarys — or if you're curious about whether it might be right for you — this guide covers everything you need to know: what it is, what it treats, how it works, how to take it, and what it costs.

What Is Azstarys?

Azstarys is the brand name for the combination of two medications:

serdexmethylphenidate and dexmethylphenidate. It belongs to the central nervous system (CNS) stimulant class of medications.

The FDA approved Azstarys on March 2, 2021, for the treatment of ADHD in patients aged 6 and older. It was developed by KemPharm and is marketed in the U.S. by Corium, a Sun Pharmaceutical company. Azstarys is available only as a brand-name medication — no generic exists, and none is expected until at least 2037.

What Does Azstarys Treat?

Azstarys is FDA-approved for one indication:

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) — in adults and children ages 6 and older

ADHD is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Azstarys is specifically approved to help increase attention and decrease impulsiveness and hyperactivity. It is not approved or indicated for narcolepsy, unlike some other stimulant medications (such as Ritalin or Adderall).

What Are the Dosage Strengths?

Azstarys comes as oral capsules in three strengths (expressed as serdexmethylphenidate/dexmethylphenidate):

26.1 mg/5.2 mg — the lowest strength, used as a lower titration option

39.2 mg/7.8 mg — the recommended starting dose for both adults and children ages 6 and older

52.3 mg/10.4 mg — the maximum recommended daily dose

What Is the Recommended Dosing?

Azstarys is taken once daily in the morning, with or without food.

Children (ages 6–12) and Adolescents (13–17): Start at 39.2/7.8 mg once daily in the morning. After one week, the dose may be increased to 52.3/10.4 mg or decreased to 26.1/5.2 mg based on response and tolerability.

Adults: Start at 39.2/7.8 mg once daily in the morning. After one week, increase to 52.3/10.4 mg once daily based on response and tolerability. Maximum dose: 52.3/10.4 mg/day.

How Do You Take Azstarys?

Azstarys can be taken in three ways:

Swallowed whole: The capsule can be swallowed whole with water or another liquid.

Sprinkled on applesauce: Open the capsule and sprinkle the entire contents onto 2 tablespoons of applesauce. Consume immediately or within 10 minutes — do not save for later.

Mixed with water: Open the capsule and sprinkle contents into 50 mL (about 2 ounces) of water. Consume the entire mixture within 10 minutes.

Always take Azstarys in the morning. Taking it late in the day can cause insomnia. Do not crush or chew the capsule contents. Do NOT substitute Azstarys for other methylphenidate products milligram-for-milligram — the pharmacokinetic profiles are different.

How Long Does Azstarys Last?

Azstarys begins working within approximately 30 minutes of taking a dose (due to the immediate-release dexmethylphenidate component) and provides ADHD symptom control for up to 13 hours throughout the day (due to the gradual conversion of serdexmethylphenidate to dexmethylphenidate). This extended duration makes Azstarys a true once-daily medication.

Is Azstarys a Controlled Substance?

Yes. Azstarys is a Schedule II (CII) controlled substance — the same classification as Adderall, Vyvanse, Concerta, Focalin XR, and other stimulant ADHD medications. This means:

It must be prescribed by a licensed provider with DEA Schedule II authority

Prescriptions must be sent electronically (EPCS) or on a written prescription — not called in

No automatic refills — a new prescription is required each month

Keep Azstarys in a secure location — never share it with others

How Much Does Azstarys Cost?

Retail (cash) price: ~$545–$598 for 30 capsules

With GoodRx: ~$445–$455

With CoriumCares savings (commercially insured): $60 or less per fill; first prescription $0

For a full guide on savings options, see: How to Save Money on Azstarys in 2026. And if you're looking for Azstarys at a pharmacy near you,

medfinder can help locate which pharmacies have it in stock.