Metadate Cd is an extended-release capsule containing Methylphenidate Hydrochloride, a central nervous system stimulant used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

What Is Metadate Cd Used For?

Metadate Cd is FDA-approved to treat ADHD in children ages 6 to 15. It helps improve focus, reduce impulsivity, and manage hyperactive behavior. While it's officially approved only for pediatric patients, doctors also prescribe it off-label for adults and adolescents older than 15 who have ADHD.

Metadate Cd belongs to a class of drugs called CNS (central nervous system) stimulants. It works by increasing levels of two brain chemicals — dopamine and norepinephrine — that play key roles in attention and impulse control. For a deeper explanation, see our article on how Metadate Cd works.

How Is Metadate Cd Different from Other ADHD Medications?

What makes Metadate Cd unique is its dual-bead delivery system. Each capsule contains two types of tiny beads:

• 30% immediate-release beads that dissolve quickly and start working within 30-60 minutes
• 70% extended-release beads that dissolve later, providing a second wave of medication about 3 hours after you take it

This means you get an initial burst of symptom control in the morning, followed by sustained relief that lasts into the afternoon — all from a single daily dose. The total duration of effect is typically 6-8 hours.

Compare this to other Methylphenidate products:

• Ritalin: Immediate-release, lasts 3-4 hours, needs multiple daily doses
• Ritalin LA: Extended-release with a 50/50 IR/ER bead ratio (vs. Metadate Cd's 30/70)
• Concerta: Uses an osmotic pump (OROS) system, lasts up to 12 hours
• Jornay PM: Taken at night, designed to work by the time you wake up

Available Dosages

Metadate Cd comes in extended-release capsules in the following strengths:

• 10 mg
• 20 mg
• 30 mg
• 40 mg
• 50 mg
• 60 mg

The typical dose range is 20 mg to 60 mg once daily. Your doctor will usually start at a lower dose and increase gradually based on how you respond and any side effects.

How to Take Metadate Cd

Here are the key rules for taking Metadate Cd correctly:

• Take it once daily in the morning, before breakfast
• Swallow the capsule whole with water or another liquid
• Don't crush or chew the beads — this would destroy the extended-release mechanism and release too much medication at once
• Sprinkle option: If you can't swallow capsules, you can open the capsule and sprinkle the beads onto a tablespoon of applesauce. Swallow the mixture immediately without chewing, then drink some fluids
• Take it at the same time each day for the most consistent results

Who Should Not Take Metadate Cd?

Metadate Cd is not safe for everyone. You should not take it if you have:

• An allergy to Methylphenidate or any ingredient in the capsule
• Glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
• Motor tics or a family history of Tourette's syndrome
• Severe high blood pressure, heart failure, or recent heart attack
• Taken an MAO inhibitor within the past 14 days

Tell your doctor about all your medical conditions before starting Metadate Cd, including any history of heart problems, seizures, mental health conditions, or substance use disorders.

Metadate Cd Is a Schedule II Controlled Substance

Because Methylphenidate has potential for abuse and dependence, Metadate Cd is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the DEA. This means:

• You need a new prescription each month — no automatic refills
• Your state's Prescription Drug Monitoring Program tracks your prescriptions
• You'll need regular follow-up visits with your doctor (typically every 1-3 months)
• Store your medication securely and never share it with others

When taken as prescribed for ADHD, the risk of addiction is low. The boxed warning is a regulatory requirement for all stimulant medications.

Common Side Effects

The most frequently reported side effects of Metadate Cd include:

• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Headache
• Stomach pain
• Insomnia
• Nervousness or irritability
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth

Most of these improve within the first few weeks. Serious side effects are rare but can include heart-related symptoms, psychiatric changes, and circulation problems. Read our full side effects guide for details on when to call your doctor.

Drug Interactions to Know About

Metadate Cd can interact with several other medications, including MAO inhibitors (which are strictly contraindicated), blood pressure medications, certain antidepressants, and anticoagulants like Warfarin. See our complete guide to Metadate Cd drug interactions.

What Does Metadate Cd Cost?

Brand-name Metadate Cd is expensive — typically $150 to $300 for a 30-day supply without insurance. Fortunately, generic versions (Methylphenidate Hydrochloride extended-release capsules, CD type) are available and cost significantly less:

• With a discount coupon (GoodRx, SingleCare): $33 to $45
• Retail price without coupon: $199 to $235

Insurance coverage varies. Many plans cover the generic but may require prior authorization or step therapy (trying immediate-release Methylphenidate first). Learn more about saving money on Metadate Cd.

Finding Metadate Cd in 2026

Metadate Cd has been affected by an ongoing stimulant medication shortage since late 2022. Fewer manufacturers produce this specific formulation, which can make it harder to find at your local pharmacy.

If you're struggling to locate Metadate Cd, Medfinder can help you check pharmacy stock without spending hours on the phone. You can also talk to your doctor about alternative formulations if Metadate Cd isn't available.

The Bottom Line

Metadate Cd is a well-established, once-daily ADHD medication that uses a unique dual-bead system for all-day symptom control. It's available in generic form at reasonable prices with discount coupons, though supply can be inconsistent due to the ongoing shortage. Work with your doctor to determine if Metadate Cd is the right choice for you, and use Medfinder to track down availability when you need it.