What Is Concerta XR?

Concerta XR is a once-daily, extended-release Methylphenidate tablet used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in patients aged 6 and older.

If you or your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, there's a good chance your doctor has mentioned Concerta XR. It's one of the most widely prescribed ADHD medications in the United States. Here's everything you need to know about it — from what it is and how it works to how much it costs and what to watch out for.

Brand, Generic, and Drug Details

• Brand name: Concerta
• Generic name: Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release
• Drug class: Central Nervous System (CNS) Stimulant
• Manufacturer: Janssen Pharmaceuticals (Johnson & Johnson)
• DEA Schedule: Schedule II (CII) — meaning it has a high potential for abuse and requires special prescribing rules
• FDA-approved for: ADHD in patients aged 6 through 65

Concerta XR uses a unique delivery system called OROS (Osmotic-controlled Release Oral delivery System). This technology releases Methylphenidate at a steady rate over 10–12 hours, so you only need one dose per day. For a deeper look at how this works, see How Does Concerta XR Work?

Other brand names for Methylphenidate ER include Relexxii. Related Methylphenidate products include Ritalin (immediate-release), Ritalin LA, Metadate CD, Quillivant XR (liquid), Daytrana (patch), and Jornay PM (delayed-release).

What Is Concerta XR Used For?

FDA-Approved Use

Concerta XR is approved to treat ADHD — a condition characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning. It's approved for:

• Children aged 6 and older
• Adolescents
• Adults up to age 65

Off-Label Uses

Some doctors prescribe Methylphenidate off-label for conditions such as:

• Treatment-resistant depression
• Cancer-related fatigue
• Apathy in Alzheimer's disease
• Narcolepsy

Off-label use means the medication is being used for a condition it wasn't specifically FDA-approved for. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks if they recommend this.

How Is Concerta XR Taken?

Concerta XR comes as an extended-release tablet in four strengths:

• 18 mg
• 27 mg
• 36 mg
• 54 mg

The typical dose ranges are:

• Children (6+): 18–54 mg once daily
• Adults: 18–72 mg once daily

Important Dosing Instructions

• Take once daily in the morning with or without food
• Swallow the tablet whole with water — do not crush, chew, or split it (this would destroy the OROS delivery system)
• The empty tablet shell may appear in your stool — this is completely normal and doesn't mean the medication didn't work
• Your doctor will typically start you on a low dose and increase gradually based on response and tolerability

Who Should Not Take Concerta XR?

Concerta XR is not right for everyone. You should not take it if you have:

• Allergy to Methylphenidate or any ingredients in Concerta
• Glaucoma
• Motor tics or a family history/diagnosis of Tourette's syndrome
• Severe anxiety, tension, or agitation (stimulants can worsen these)
• Severe GI narrowing (the OROS tablet could cause a blockage)
• Current or recent use of MAO inhibitors (within 14 days) — this combination can cause a dangerous hypertensive crisis

Tell your doctor about your complete medical history, including any heart problems, high blood pressure, mental health conditions, or history of substance abuse. Concerta XR carries a boxed warning about the risk of abuse and dependence.

For more on what to watch for, read our guide on Concerta XR side effects.

How Much Does Concerta XR Cost?

The cost of Concerta XR varies depending on whether you use brand-name or generic, and whether you have insurance:

• Brand-name Concerta: $300–$545 per month (30 tablets) without insurance
• Generic Methylphenidate ER: $30–$80 per month with a coupon (retail price without a coupon can be ~$324)
• With insurance: Generic Methylphenidate ER is covered by most Medicare and commercial plans. Brand-name Concerta often requires prior authorization and may not be covered at all.

Ways to Save

• Concerta Savings Program (Janssen): Eligible commercially insured patients can pay as little as $4 per fill, up to $150 off per fill. Not valid for government insurance.
• Patient Assistance (JJPAF): Free Concerta for eligible uninsured or underinsured patients through the Johnson & Johnson Patient Assistance Foundation at jnjwithme.com.
• Discount cards: GoodRx, SingleCare, and other coupon cards can significantly lower the cost of generic Methylphenidate ER.

For a complete breakdown, see How to Save Money on Concerta XR.

Current Availability (2026)

Concerta XR and generic Methylphenidate ER have experienced intermittent shortages since 2022 as part of the broader ADHD medication shortage. The DEA increased Methylphenidate production quotas by up to 25% in October 2025, but some strengths and manufacturers may still be hard to find.

If your pharmacy is out of stock, use Medfinder to check which pharmacies near you have it available.

Final Thoughts

Concerta XR is a well-established, once-daily ADHD medication that has helped millions of people manage their symptoms. It works for 10–12 hours, comes in several dose strengths, and has both brand-name and affordable generic options. Like any medication, it's not right for everyone — but for many people with ADHD, it's an effective part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Talk to your doctor about whether Concerta XR is a good fit for you. And if you need help finding a prescriber or locating Concerta XR in stock, Medfinder is here to help.