Ritalin vs Concerta

Which ADHD Medication Is Superior? 

Ritalin vs Concerta is a great debate among those with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).


What Are Ritalin And Concerta?

Ritalin and Concerta are both stimulant prescription medications that are used to treat ADHD, otherwise known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

They interact with chemicals in the brain that contribute to impulse control and hyperactivity.

The regular versions of each medication begins working in 30-60 minutes and can last for 3 hours (Ritalin) or up to 4 or 5 hours (Concerta).

In addition, they are both offered in long-lasting versions that can last up to 12 hours(Ritalin) and 15 hours (Concerta).

Ritalin vs Concerta: The Breakdown

In my clinical experience, I would say that Concerta typically lasts longer than most other extended or sustained release stimulants.

In addition, it is less likely to produce rebound. (Rebound is the phenomenon where some experience irritability or depression for up to an hour as the drug wears off). Remember, what works for one person may not work for you. Therefore, it is difficult to compare drug reactions between people because everyone is different.

Helpful Tips

It is essential to have open, two-way communication with the prescribing doctor. Report any noticeable side effects. Some people find it helpful to keep a medication journal in order to track progress or side effects. Ask questions. This empowers all of the parties involved and results in optimum treatment for you or your child.

Do not alter doses, skip does, or stop giving medications cold turkey without consulting your doctor first. If you feel your voice is not heard then seek one who will listen. Also, it is preferable to find a doctor or psychiatrist who specializes in treating ADHD rather than rely on a primary care physician.

Other Effective ADHD Treatment Options

Medications are not magic fixes. Rather, meds are simply one tool to help manage ADHD. Other important tools that should be considered are exercise, yoga, meditation, all-natural ADHD dietADD Natural Remedies, and ADHD coaching.


For Children

In my opinion, the ADHD Breakthrough Program is the single most effective resource for families struggling with ADHD.

Created by a child psychologist, it teaches parents all about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and how to communicate effectively with their ADHD child.

Perhaps more important, it teaches parents how to manage and eliminate difficult behaviors related to ADHD, and how to get their children to focus, do homework, etc.

For Adults

The How To Conquer ADHD program is a self-help guide written by an adult with ADHD. In it, he details all of the methods he used to learn how to overcome his ADHD become highly successful.


It may take some trial and error to find out which is best for each individual. In the end, through personal experience, you will find whether Ritalin or Concerta is right for you.

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