What Is Quillivant XR?

Quillivant XR is a once-daily, extended-release liquid (oral suspension) form of Methylphenidate used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in patients aged 6 and older.

It's one of the few ADHD stimulant medications available as a liquid, which makes it an important option for children and adults who have difficulty swallowing pills. Quillivant XR is manufactured by Tris Pharma, Inc. and was approved by the FDA for the treatment of ADHD.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Brand name: Quillivant XR
• Generic name: Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Oral Suspension
• Drug class: CNS Stimulant
• Manufacturer: Tris Pharma, Inc.
• DEA Schedule: Schedule II (CII) — controlled substance with high abuse potential
• Form: Extended-release oral suspension, 25 mg per 5 mL (5 mg/mL after reconstitution)
• Generic available: No

What Is Quillivant XR Used For?

Quillivant XR is FDA-approved for one indication: the treatment of ADHD in patients aged 6 years and older. This includes both children and adults.

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning. Quillivant XR helps manage these symptoms by increasing the availability of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. For a detailed explanation of how it works, see our guide on how Quillivant XR works.

Some doctors may also prescribe Methylphenidate off-label for conditions like narcolepsy or as an adjunct in treatment-resistant depression, though Quillivant XR specifically is primarily used for ADHD.

How Is Quillivant XR Taken?

Quillivant XR is taken once daily in the morning, with or without food. Here's what you need to know about taking it correctly:

• Shake well — Vigorously shake the bottle for at least 10 seconds before every dose. The medication is a suspension, meaning the active ingredient settles at the bottom.
• Use the provided dispenser — Always use the calibrated oral dosing dispenser that comes with the medication. Don't use a household spoon — it won't give an accurate dose.
• Pharmacy reconstitutes it — The pharmacy mixes the powder with water before giving it to you. Don't try to mix it yourself.
• Don't substitute milligram-for-milligram — Quillivant XR is not interchangeable on a mg-per-mg basis with other Methylphenidate products. Switching between formulations requires your doctor's guidance.

Typical Dosage

The typical dose range is 20 mg to 60 mg once daily. Your doctor will usually start at a lower dose and adjust based on response and side effects. The dosing flexibility of a liquid is one of Quillivant XR's biggest advantages — your doctor can fine-tune the dose in small increments rather than being limited to fixed tablet strengths.

Who Should Not Take Quillivant XR?

Quillivant XR is not appropriate for everyone. You should not take it if you have:

• A known allergy to Methylphenidate or any ingredient in Quillivant XR
• Current or recent use of MAO inhibitors — You must wait at least 14 days after stopping an MAOI before starting Quillivant XR. Combining them can cause a dangerous spike in blood pressure (hypertensive crisis).

Use with caution if you have:

• Pre-existing heart conditions (structural defects, cardiomyopathy, arrhythmias)
• A history of psychiatric disorders (psychosis, bipolar disorder, severe anxiety)
• A history of seizures
• A history of substance abuse

Quillivant XR is not recommended for children under 6 due to higher drug exposure and more side effects in this age group.

For more on side effects and safety, read our detailed guide on Quillivant XR side effects.

How Much Does Quillivant XR Cost?

Quillivant XR is a brand-name medication with no generic available, which makes it expensive:

• Cash price: $328 to $480 per bottle (120 mL)
• With insurance: Coverage varies significantly. Many insurers require prior authorization and may require step therapy (trying cheaper Methylphenidate formulations first).
• Medicare: Most Medicare plans do not cover Quillivant XR without prior authorization.

Ways to Save

• Tris Pharma Savings Card: Eligible commercially insured and cash-paying patients may pay as little as $20 per prescription. Activate at trissavingscard.com or coupon.trisadhd.com.
• Discount cards: GoodRx, SingleCare, and other prescription discount cards may offer lower prices at some pharmacies.
• Patient assistance: Organizations like NeedyMeds, RxAssist, and Simplefill can help uninsured or underinsured patients access Quillivant XR.

For a complete breakdown, see our guide on how to save money on Quillivant XR.

What Makes Quillivant XR Different?

Quillivant XR stands out from other ADHD medications for a few reasons:

• It's a liquid — One of very few extended-release ADHD stimulants available in liquid form. This is crucial for patients who can't swallow pills.
• Precise dosing — The liquid form allows for more exact dose adjustments than tablets or capsules with fixed strengths.
• Extended release — A single morning dose provides up to 12 hours of symptom control, covering the full school or work day.
• No need to open capsules or crush tablets — Unlike Ritalin LA (which can be opened and sprinkled), Quillivant XR is ready to take as-is.

For a comparison with similar medications, check out our guide on alternatives to Quillivant XR.

Current Availability

As of 2026, Quillivant XR has been experiencing intermittent supply shortages. The FDA has listed it as in shortage since 2023, driven by manufacturing issues at Tris Pharma and increased demand during the broader ADHD stimulant shortage.

If you need help finding Quillivant XR at a pharmacy, Medfinder can show you which pharmacies near you currently have it in stock. You can also read our tips on how to find Quillivant XR in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

Quillivant XR fills an important gap in ADHD treatment — it's one of the only long-acting liquid stimulants available, making it a go-to choice for patients who need a non-pill option. While the cost is high and supply can be unpredictable, savings programs and tools like Medfinder can help you access it more reliably.

Always take Quillivant XR exactly as prescribed, shake the bottle before every dose, and stay in regular contact with your doctor to monitor for side effects and ensure the medication is working as expected.