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methylphenidate hydrochloride CD

Generic: methylphenidate hydrochloride

Verified·Apr 23, 2026
Manufacturer
UCB
NDC
0527-4579
Route
ORAL
ICD-10 indication
F90.9

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About methylphenidate hydrochloride CD

Methylphenidate hydrochloride CD is a central nervous system stimulant indicated for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This medication works by altering the levels of certain natural chemicals in the brain to help improve focus, increase attention span, and reduce impulsive behaviors. The CD version uses a controlled delivery system designed to release the active ingredient throughout the day to provide long-lasting symptom relief.

Copay & patient assistance

  • Patient Copay Amount: As little as $0 per month
  • Maximum Annual Benefit Limit: Not Publicly Available
  • Core Eligibility Restrictions: Not Publicly Available
  • RxBIN, PCN, and Group numbers: Not Publicly Available

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Prescribing information

From the FDA-approved label for methylphenidate hydrochloride CD. Official source: DailyMed (NLM) · Label effective Sep 30, 2025

Boxed warning
WARNING: ABUSE, MISUSE, AND ADDICTION Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD has a high potential for abuse and misuse, which can lead to the development of a substance use disorder, including addiction. Misuse and abuse of CNS stimulants, including Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD, can result in overdose and death [see Overdosage ( 10 )] , and this risk is increased with higher doses or unapproved methods of administration, such as snorting or injection. Before prescribing Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction. Educate patients and their families about these risks, proper storage of the drug, and proper disposal of any unused drug. Throughout Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD treatment, reassess each patient’s risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction and frequently monitor for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse, and addiction [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) and Drug Abuse and dependence ( 9.2 )] . WARNING: ABUSE, MISUSE, AND ADDICTION See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD has a high potential for abuse and misuse, which can lead to the development of a substance use disorder, including addiction. Misuse and abuse of CNS stimulants, including Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD, can result in overdose and death ( 5.1 , 9.2 , 10 ): Before prescribing Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction. Educate patients and their families about these risks, proper storage of the drug, and proper disposal of any unused drug. Throughout treatment, reassess each patient’s risk and frequently monitor for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse, and addiction.
Indications and usage
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD is indicated for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in pediatric patients 6 to 15 years of age. Limitations of Use The use of Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD is not recommended in pediatric patients younger than 6 years of age because they had higher plasma exposure and a higher incidence of adverse reactions (e.g. weight loss) than patients 6 years and older at the same dosage [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 ), Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4 )] . Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant indicated for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in pediatric patients 6 to 15 years of age. ( 1 ) Limitations of Use The use of Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD is not recommended in pediatric patients younger than 6 years of age because they had higher exposure and a higher incidence of adverse reactions (e.g., weight loss) than patients 6 years and older at the same dosage. ( 5.7 , 8.4 )
Dosage and administration
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Take orally once daily in the morning, before breakfast. Swallow whole with the aid of liquids, or sprinkle contents onto a small amount of applesauce and give immediately. Do not crush or chew the capsule or capsule contents ( 2.1 ) Recommended starting dose is 20 mg once daily. Dosage may be increased 10-20 mg at weekly intervals; do not exceed 60 mg per day ( 2.2 ) 2.1 Pretreatment Screening Prior to treating patients with Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD, assess: for the presence of cardiac disease (i.e., perform a careful history, family history of sudden death or ventricular arrhythmia, and physical exam) [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10 )] . the family history and clinically evaluate patients for motor or verbal tics or Tourette’s syndrome before initiating Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10 )] . 2.2 Dosage Recommendations The recommended starting dose of Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD is 20 mg once daily. Dosage may be adjusted in weekly 10 mg to 20 mg increments to the maximum recommended dose of 60 mg per day. Dosage should be individualized according to the needs and responses of the patient. 2.3 Administration Instructions Administer Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD orally once daily in the morning, before breakfast. Swallow the capsule whole with the aid of liquids. Alternatively, open the capsule and sprinkle the contents onto a small amount (tablespoon) of applesauce and administer immediately. Do not store for future use. Drink fluids following the intake of the sprinkled capsule contents with applesauce. The capsules and the capsule contents must not be crushed or chewed. 2.4 Dosage Reduction and Discontinuation If paradoxical aggravation of symptoms or other adverse reactions occur, reduce dosage or, if necessary, discontinue Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD. If improvement is not observed after appropriate dosage adjustment over a one-month period, discontinue Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD.
Contraindications
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD is contraindicated in patients with: known hypersensitivity to methylphenidate or other component of Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD. Angioedema has been reported in patients treated with Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD. Anaphylactic reactions have been reported in patients treated with other methylphenidate products [see Adverse Reactions ( 6 )] . Concomitant treatment with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or within 14 days following discontinuation of treatment with an MAOI, because of the risk of hypertensive crisis [see Drug Interactions ( 7 )] . Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD contains sucrose. Therefore, patients with hereditary problems of fructose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption, or sucrase-isomaltase insufficiency should not take this medicine. Known hypersensitivity to methylphenidate or other components of Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD ( 4 ) Concurrent treatment with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), or use of an MAOI within the preceding 14 days ( 4 ) Use in patients with patients with hereditary problems of fructose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption, or sucrase-isomaltase insufficiency ( 4 )
Warnings and precautions
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Risks to Patients with Serious Cardiac Disease: Avoid use in patients with known structural cardiac abnormalities, cardiomyopathy, serious cardiac arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, or other serious cardiac disease. ( 5.2 ) Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate: Monitor blood pressure and pulse. ( 5.3 ) Psychiatric Adverse Reactions: Prior to initiating Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD, screen patients for risk factors for developing a manic episode. If new psychotic or manic symptoms occur, consider discontinuing Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD. ( 5.4 ) Priapism: If abnormally sustained or frequent and painful erections occur, patients should seek immediate medical attention. ( 5.5 ) Peripheral Vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s Phenomenon: Careful observation for digital changes is necessary during Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD treatment. Further clinical evaluation (e.g., rheumatology referral) may be appropriate for patients who develop signs or symptoms of peripheral vasculopathy. ( 5.6 ) Long-Term Suppression of Growth in Pediatric Patients: Closely monitor growth (height and weight) in pediatric patients. Pediatric patients not growing or gaining height or weight as expected may need to have their treatment interrupted. ( 5.7 ) Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma: Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD-treated patients considered at risk for acute angle closure glaucoma (e.g., patients with significant hyperopia) should be evaluated by an ophthalmologist. ( 5.8 ) Increased Intraocular Pressure (IOP) and Glaucoma: Prescribe Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD to patients with open-angle glaucoma or abnormally increased IOP only if the benefit of treatment is considered to outweigh the risk. Closely monitor patients with a history of increased IOP or open angle glaucoma. ( 5.9 ) Motor and Verbal Tics, and Worsening of Tourette’s Syndrome: Before initiating Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD, assess the family history and clinically evaluate patients for tics or Tourette’s syndrome. Regularly monitor patients for the emergence or worsening of tics or Tourette’s syndrome. Discontinue treatment if clinically appropriate. ( 5.10 ) 5.1 Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD has a high potential for abuse and misuse. The use of Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD exposes individuals to the risks of abuse and misuse, which can lead to the development of a substance use disorder, including addiction. Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD can be diverted for non-medical use into illicit channels or distribution [see Drug Abuse and Dependence ( 9.2 )] . Misuse and abuse of CNS stimulants, including Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD, can result in overdose and death [see Overdosage ( 10 )] , and this risk is increased with higher doses or unapproved methods of administration, such as snorting or injection. Before prescribing Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction. Educate patients and their families about these risks and proper disposal of any unused drug. Advise patients to store Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD in a safe place, preferably locked, and instruct patients to not give Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD to anyone else. Throughout Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD treatment, reassess each patient’s risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction and frequently monitor for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse, and addiction. 5.2 Risks to Patients with Serious Cardiac Disease Sudden death has been reported in patients with structural cardiac abnormalities or other serious cardiac disease who were treated with CNS stimulants at the recommended dosage. Avoid Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD use in patients with known structural cardiac abnormalities, cardiomyopathy, serious cardiac arrhythmia, coronary artery disease, or other serious cardiac problems. 5.3 Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate CNS stimulants cause an increase in blood pressure (mean increase approximately 2 to 4 mmHg) and heart rate (mean increase approximately 3 to 6 bpm). Some patients may have larger increases. Monitor all Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD treated patients for hypertension and tachycardia. 5.4 Psychiatric Adverse Reactions Exacerbation of Pre-Existing Psychosis CNS stimulants may exacerbate symptoms of behavior disturbance and thought disorder in patients with a pre-existing psychotic disorder. Induction of a Manic Episode in Patients with Bipolar Disorder CNS stimulants may induce a manic or mixed episode in patients. Prior to initiating Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD treatment, screen patients for risk factors for developing a manic episode (e.g., comorbid or history of depressive symptoms or a family history of suicide, bipolar disorder, or depression). New Psychotic or Manic Symptoms CNS stimulants, at the recommended dosages, may cause psychotic or manic symptoms (e.g., hallucinations, delusional thinking, or mania) in patients without a prior history of psychotic illness or mania. In a pooled analysis of multiple short-term, placebo-controlled studies of CNS stimulants, psychotic or manic symptoms occurred in approximately 0.1% of CNC stimulant-treated patients, compared to 0% of placebo-treated patients. If such symptoms occur, consider discontinuing Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD. 5.5 Priapism Prolonged and painful erections, sometimes requiring surgical intervention, have been reported with methylphenidate use in both adult and pediatric male patients. Although priapism was not reported with methylphenidate initiation, it developed after some time on methylphenidate, often subsequent to an increase in dosage. Priapism also occurred during methylphenidate withdrawal (drug holidays or during discontinuation). Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD-treated patients who develop abnormally sustained or frequent and painful erections should seek immediate medical attention. 5.6 Peripheral Vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s Phenomenon CNS stimulants, including Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD, used to treat ADHD are associated with peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s phenomenon. Signs and symptoms are usually intermittent and mild; however, sequelae have included digital ulceration and/or soft tissue breakdown. Effects of peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s phenomenon, were observed in post-marketing reports and at the therapeutic dosages of CNS stimulants in all age groups throughout the course of treatment. Signs and symptoms generally improved after dosage reduction in or discontinuation of the CNS stimulant. Careful observation for digital changes is necessary during Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD treatment. Further clinical evaluation (e.g., rheumatology referral) may be appropriate for Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD-treated patients who develop signs of symptoms of peripheral vasculopathy. 5.7 Long-Term Suppression of Growth in Pediatric Patients Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD is not approved for use and is not recommended in pediatric patients below 6 years of age [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4 )] . CNS stimulants have been associated with weight loss and slowing of growth rate in pediatric patients. Careful follow-up of weight and height in children ages 7 to 10 years who were randomized to either methylphenidate or non-medication treatment groups over 14 months, as well as in naturalistic subgroups of newly methylphenidate-treated and non-medication treated children over 36 months (to the ages of 10 to 13 years), suggests that pediatric patients who received methylphenidate treatment for 7 days per week throughout the year had a temporary slowing in growth rate (on average, a total of about 2 cm less growth in height and 2.7 kg less growth in weight over 3 years), without evidence of growth rebound during this development period. Closely monitor growth (weight and height) in Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD-treated pediatric patients. Pediatric patients who are not growing or gaining height or weight as expected may need to have their treatment interrupted. 5.8 Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma There have been reports of angle closure glaucoma associated with methylphenidate treatment. Although the mechanism is not clear, Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD-treated patients considered at risk for acute angle closure glaucoma (e.g., patients with significant hyperopia) should be evaluated by an ophthalmologist. 5.9 Increased Intraocular Pressure and Glaucoma There have been reports of an elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP) associated with methylphenidate treatment [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] . Prescribe Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD to patients with open-angle glaucoma or abnormally increased IOP only if the benefit of treatment is considered to outweigh the risk. Closely monitor Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD-treated patients with a history of abnormally increased IOP or open angle glaucoma. 5.10 Motor and Verbal Tics, and Worsening of Tourette’s Syndrome CNS stimulants, including methylphenidate, have been associated with the onset or exacerbation of motor and verbal tics. Worsening of Tourette’s syndrome has also been reported [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] . Before initiating Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD, assess the family history and clinically evaluate patients for tics or Tourette’s syndrome. Regularly monitor Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD-treated patients for the emergence or worsening of tics or Tourette’s syndrome, and discontinue treatment if clinically appropriate.
Drug interactions
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Table 3 presents clinically important drug interactions with Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD. Table 3: Clinically Important Drug Interactions with Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOI) Clinical Impact: Concomitant use of MAOIs and CNS stimulants, including Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD, can cause hypertensive crisis. Potential outcomes include death, stroke, myocardial infarction, aortic dissection, ophthalmological complications, eclampsia, pulmonary edema, and renal failure [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Intervention: Concomitant use of Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days after discontinuing MAOI treatment is contraindicated. Antihypertensive Drugs Clinical Impact: Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD may decrease the effectiveness of drugs used to treat hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] . Intervention: Adjust the dosage of the antihypertensive drug as needed. Halogenated Anesthetics Clinical Impact: Concomitant use of halogenated anesthetics and Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD may increase the risk of sudden blood pressure and heart rate increase during surgery. Intervention: Monitor blood pressure and avoid use of Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD in patients being treated with anesthetics on the day of surgery. Risperidone Clinical Impact: Combined use of methylphenidate with risperidone when there is a change, whether an increase or decrease, in dosage of either or both medications, may increase the risk of extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS). Intervention: Monitor for signs of EPS. Antihypertensive Drugs: Monitor blood pressure. Adjust dosage of antihypertensive drug as needed ( 7 )
Adverse reactions
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following are discussed in more detail in other sections of the labeling: Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), Drug Abuse and Dependence ( 9.2 , 9.3 )] Hypersensitivity to Methylphenidate and Other Component of Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD [see Contraindications ( 4 )] Hypertensive Crisis when Used Concomitantly with MAOIs [see Contraindications (4) and Drug Interactions ( 7 )] Risks to Patients with Serious Cardiac Disease [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] Psychiatric Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] Priapism [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] Peripheral Vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s Phenomenon [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] Long-Term Suppression of Growth in Pediatric Patients [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] Increased Intraocular Pressure and Glaucoma [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 )] Motor and Verbal Tics, and Worsening of Tourette’s Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10 )] The most common adverse reactions (≥ 5% and twice the rate of placebo) were anorexia and insomnia ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Lannett Company, Inc. at 1-844-834-0530 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Clinical trials experience with Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD included 188 pediatric patients 6 to 15 years old with ADHD exposed to Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD. Patients received Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD 20 mg, 40 mg, and/or 60 mg per day. The 188 patients were evaluated in the following studies: Study 1, a 3-week placebo-controlled clinical study consisting of a total of 314 pediatric patients (ages 6 to 15 years; Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD n=155); Study 2, a placebo-controlled, crossover clinical study consisting of 25 pediatric patients (ages 7 to 12 years); and Study 3, an uncontrolled clinical study consisting of 8 pediatric patients (ages 6 to 10 years). Adverse Reactions Leading to Discontinuation of Treatment In the 3-week placebo-controlled, parallel-group trial, two Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD-treated patients (1%) and no placebo-treated patients discontinued due to an adverse reaction (rash and pruritus; and headache, abdominal pain, and dizziness, respectively). Most Common Adverse Reactions The most common adverse reactions that occurred in 5% or more of patients treated with Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD in a pool of Studies 1, 2 and 3 (ages 6 to 15 years) where the incidence in patients treated with Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD was at least twice the incidence in placebo-treated patients were anorexia and insomnia. Adverse reactions that occurred in ≥5% of patients treated with Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD and greater than placebo in pooled Studies, 1, 2, and 3 are presented in Table 2: Table 2: Adverse Reactions (≥5% and Greater than Placebo) in Pediatric Patients Ages 6 to 15 Years Receiving Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD in Pooled Three to Four Week Trials Body System Preferred Term Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD (n=188) % Placebo (n=190) % General Headache 12 8 Abdominal Pain (stomachache) 7 4 Digestive System Anorexia 9 2 Nervous System Insomnia 5 2 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during postmarketing use of Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD and other methylphenidate HCl products. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Adverse Reactions with Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD Blood and the lymphatic system disorders: thrombocytopenia Cardiac disorders: cardiac arrest, sudden death Immune system disorders: angioedema Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: rhabdomyolysis Psychiatric disorders: abnormal behavior, aggression, anxiety, irritability, obsessive-compulsive disorder, suicidal behavior (including completed suicide), libido changes, serotonin syndrome in combination with serotonergic drugs Nervous System Disorder: migraine, reversible ischemic neurological deficit, bruxism Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: fixed drug eruption Vascular disorders: peripheral coldness, Raynaud’s phenomenon Adverse Reactions with Other Methylphenidate HCl Products Blood and the lymphatic system disorders: leukopenia, anemia, pancytopenia Cardiac disorders: palpitations; increased blood pressure, tachycardia, angina pectoris, cardiac arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, bradycardia, extrasystole Eye disorders: blurred vision, difficulties in visual accommodation, diplopia, increased intraocular pressure, mydriasis Gastrointestinal disorders: nausea, abdominal pain, dry mouth, vomiting, dyspepsia, diarrhea, constipation General Disorders: fatigue, hyperpyrexia Hepatobiliary disorders: abnormal liver function, ranging from transaminase elevation to severe hepatic injury Immune system disorders: hypersensitivity, including anaphylaxis, auricular swelling, bullous conditions, eruptions, exanthemas Infections and infestations: nasopharyngitis Metabolism and nutrition disorders: decreased appetite, reduced weight gain and suppression of growth during prolonged use in pediatric patients Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: arthralgia, muscle cramps, myalgia, muscle twitching Nervous System Disorder: nervousness, dizziness, headache, dyskinesia, including choreoatheetoid movements, drowsiness, tremor, convulsions, cerebrovascular disorders (including vasculitis, cerebral hemorrhages and cerebrovascular accidents), serotonin syndrome in combination with serotonergic drugs, motor and verbal tics Psychiatric disorders: depressed mood, restlessness, agitation, psychosis (sometimes with visual and tactile hallucinations), affect liability, mania, disorientation Renal and urinary disorders: hematuria Reproductive system and breast disorders: gynecomastia Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: pharyngolaryngeal pain, dyspnea, cough Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: scalp hair loss, hyperhidrosis, angioneurotic edema, erythema, exfoliative dermatitis, thrombocytopenic purpura, urticaria, erythema multiforme rash Urogenital disorders: priapism Vascular disorders: isolated cases of cerebral arteritis and/or occlusion
Use in pregnancy
8.1 Pregnancy There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to ADHD medications, including Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD, during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by calling the National Pregnancy Registry for Psychostimulants at 1-866-961-2388. Risk Summary Published studies and postmarketing reports on methylphenidate use during pregnancy have not identified a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. There may be risks to the fetus associated with the use of CNS stimulants use during pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations) . No effects on morphological development were observed in embryo-fetal development studies with oral administration of methylphenidate to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis at doses up to 10 and 15 times, respectively, the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 60 mg/day given to adolescents on a mg/m2 basis. However, spina bifida was observed in rabbits at a dose 53 times the MRHD given to adolescents. A decrease in pup body weight was observed in a pre-and post-natal development study with oral administration of methylphenidate to rats throughout pregnancy and lactation at doses 6 times the MRHD given to adolescents (see Data) . The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions CNS stimulants, such as Methylphenidate HCl Extended-Release Capsules CD, can cause vasoconstriction and thereby decrease placental perfusion. No fetal and/or neonatal adverse reactions have been reported with the use of therapeutic doses of methylphenidate during pregnancy; however, premature delivery and low birth weight infants have been reported in amphetamine-dependent mothers. Animal Data In embryo-fetal development studies conducted in rats and rabbits, methylphenidate was administered orally at doses of up to 75 and 200 mg/kg/day, respectively, during the period of organogenesis. Malformations (increased incidence of fetal spina bifida) were observed in rabbits at the highest dose, which is approximately 52 times the MRHD of 60 mg/day given to adolescents on a mg/m 2 basis. The no effect level for embryo-fetal development in rabbits was 60 mg/kg/day (15 times the MRHD given to adolescents on a mg/m 2 basis). There was no evidence of morphological development effects in rats, although increased incidences of fetal skeletal variations were seen at the highest dose level (10 times the MRHD of 60 mg/day given to adults on a mg/m 2 basis), which was also maternally toxic. The no effect level for embryo-fetal development in rats was 25 mg/kg/day (3 times the MRHD on a mg/m 2 basis). When methylphenidate was administered to rats throughout pregnancy and lactation at doses of up to 45 mg/kg/day, offspring body weight gain was decreased at the highest dose (6 times the MRHD of 60 mg/day given to adults on a mg/m 2 basis), but no other effects on postnatal development were observed. The no effect level for pre-and postnatal development in rats was 15 mg/kg/day (~2 times the MRHD given to adolescents on a mg/m 2 basis).

Label text is reproduced as-is from the FDA-approved label. We do not paraphrase, summarize, or omit. Content above is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your prescribing clinician or pharmacist before making decisions about your medication.

Conditions we've indexed resources for

Click a condition to see copay cards, grants, and PA rules specific to it. For the full list of FDA-approved indications, see Prescribing information above.

Medicare Part D coverage

How methylphenidate hydrochloride CD appears across Medicare Part D plan formularies nationally. Source: CMS monthly Prescription Drug Plan file (2026-04-30).

Covered by plans

21%

1,132 of 5,509 plans

Most common tier

Tier 2

On 38% of covering formularies

Prior authorization required

10%

of covering formularies

TierFormularies on this tierShare
Tier 1 (preferred generic)10
17%
Tier 2 (generic)22
38%
Tier 3 (preferred brand)7
12%
Tier 4 (non-preferred brand)19
33%

Step therapy: 0% of formularies

Quantity limits: 83% of formularies

Coverage breadth: 58 of 65 formularies

How to read this:plans on the same formulary share tier + PA rules. Your specific plan's copay depends on (a) the tier above, (b) your plan's cost-share for that tier, (c) whether you're in the initial coverage phase or past the 2026 $2,000 out-of-pocket cap. For your exact plan, check its Summary of Benefits or log in to your Medicare.gov account. Copay cards don't apply to Medicare (federal law).

Prior authorization & coverage

PayerPAStep therapyCopay tier

Medicare Part D

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How this page is sourced

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