Ritalin to Concerta Equivalent Dose Conversion

Conversion Rationale

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry recommends that Concerta 18mg is equivalent to methylphenidate immediate release (Ritalin) 5mg given three times daily (total daily dose of 15mg) 1
The osmotically released, timed drug-delivery system of Concerta produces an ascending-pattern plasma drug level designed to provide coverage throughout the day 1

Ritalin begins to act within a short time frame of ingestion with peak effects occurring at approximately 2 hours 1, 3

When switching from immediate-release to extended-release formulations, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry notes that immediate-release methylphenidate produces higher peak plasma concentrations and yields a steeper absorption-phase slope ("ramp" effect) than extended-release preparations 1
Clinical efficacy studies have shown Concerta given once daily is equally effective as methylphenidate immediate release tablets given 3 times daily 1

Eliminates the midday "trough" in medication levels that can occur with immediate-release formulations 3
Lower potential for abuse compared to immediate-release formulations as the medication is in a paste form that cannot be crushed or snorted 4

Plasma levels of methylphenidate do not correlate well with clinical response, so dosing should be based on clinical effect rather than weight or plasma concentrations 1
Start with the recommended equivalent dose (18mg Concerta for 10mg Ritalin) and adjust based on clinical response 1