Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder – more commonly known as ADHD – is extremely common throughout the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is estimated that roughly 4 percent of all American adults have been diagnosed with ADHD and that 9.4 percent of all children under the age of 18 have been diagnosed. ADHD is far more common among children – the mental health condition affects 3.3 million children between the ages of 12 and 17, 2.4 million children between the ages of 6 and 11, and 388,000 children between the ages of 2 and 5. Most children who suffer from ADHD simultaneously struggle with another mental health condition, according to the CDC. A national survey conducted in the year 2016 determined that 6 out of every 10 children who had been diagnosed with ADHD struggled with a co-occurring behavioral, emotional, or psychological disorder. While treatment varies depending on the unique needs of each individual, the most common and effective form of ADHD treatment is a combination of medication and behavioral therapy.
Is Ritalin or Concerta Used for Treating ADHD?
It is estimated that roughly 62 percent of all children between the ages of 12 and 17 who were diagnosed with ADHD are currently on medication and that 47 percent are receiving some degree of behavioral treatment. When it comes to the most common medications, Adderall and Ritalin tend to be utilized the most. However, Concerta is also frequently prescribed. There are some major differences between Ritalin and Concerta that are important to note. To learn more about ADHD and co-occurring disorders, reach out to Evoke Wellness today. 
Ritalin and Concerta – Main Differences
Both Ritalin and Concerta are Food and Drug Administration approved for the treatment of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder. They are both stimulant medications, and they both have a high potential for misuse. That’s why once you become hooked on these drugs, getting off them requires clinical treatment and sober support.
Are Ritalin and Concerta the Same Drug?
Both medications contain the same active ingredient – methylphenidate. Methylphenidate works by increasing the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine present in the brain, ultimately helping to increase focus and alleviate the more common symptoms associated with ADHD. However, there are several significant differences between the two medications. The main differences are as follows:
- Ritalin is an immediate-release medication, while Concerta is a long-acting medication
- The dosing for each medication is different – Ritalin is generally taken in 20 to 30mg doses up to three times a day, while Concerta is taken once daily, and doses can vary from 18mg to 72mg depending on the severity of the disorder
- Ritalin can be taken for years while Concerta is generally only prescribed to be taken for several months at a time
- Ritalin can be used to treat other conditions in some instances, including narcolepsy
- One dose of Ritalin lasts for around 4 hours, while one dose of Concerta lasts for roughly 12 hours (which is why it is only taken once a day, usually first thing in the morning)
To learn more about the differences and similarities between the two medications, reach out to Evoke Wellness today. We are available to answer any medication-related questions you may have.
Evoke Wellness – Treating ADHD and Substance Abuse
ADHD and substance abuse often go hand-in-hand. Additionally, because both Ritalin and Concerta are considered Schedule II chemical substances and have a high potential for abuse, many clients come to us with a prescription stimulant abuse disorder. If you or someone you love has been abusing prescription stimulants for any period, professional treatment will be necessary. At Evoke Wellness we utilize a proven combination of behavioral therapies, holistic modalities, and the 12-step model of drug addiction recovery. If you would like to learn more or begin your journey of healing, give us a call today. Recovery is always possible, no matter how severe a substance abuse disorder has become and regardless of which underlying disorders you are simultaneously suffering from.
