Tools
Methylphenidate brand switcher
Choose the modified-release (long-acting) methylphenidate brand you take. The switcher shows which brands are listed as a match for it, which can only be switched with particular care, and which only look similar. Only change brand with your prescriber or pharmacist.
Written by Adam OdusholaADHD Advanced Practitioner and Clinical Prescribing Pharmacist
Last updated:Key points
- Do not assume that methylphenidate brands are a direct swap.
- Some are listed as equivalent; others release the medicine differently.
- Modified-release methylphenidate is prescribed and dispensed by brand name.
- Your prescriber and pharmacist should confirm the product, dose and instructions before you change.
Which brands are listed as a match for mine?
Pick your brand to see which others are listed as a match for it, which can only be switched with particular care, and which only look similar.
Pick your brand to see which others can be switched with it, and which only look similar.
Source: Prescribing and switching between modified-release methylphenidate.
Which methylphenidate brands are equivalent?
The full list, by group:
| Group | Brands or products | What this means |
|---|---|---|
| Listed prolonged-release tablets | Affenid XL, Atenza XL, Concerta XL, Delmosart, Matoride XL, Xaggitin XL and Xenidate XL | A clinician may arrange an equivalent-dose switch when appropriate |
| Listed 50:50 capsules | Focusim XL, Meflynate XL, Metyrol XL and Ritalin XL | A clinician may arrange a switch, while checking product-specific instructions |
| 50:50 capsule with a separate caution | Medikinet XL | Not completely equivalent to the other four capsules; food and interaction rules matter |
| No listed equivalent | Equasym XL | Requires specialist review rather than a direct brand swap |
| Not on the NHS list | Kixel XL and Tuzulby | Not included in the cited equivalent-brand groups: do not infer equivalence from tablet form, ingredient or release percentage |
Groups from the NHS list of equivalent brands. Matoride XL is licensed for children and young people only, so it is not a swap for adults. Equasym XL and Tuzulby are also licensed for ages 6 to 17.
Source: Prescribing and switching between modified-release methylphenidate.
What should I check before taking a different brand?
A matching milligram number is not enough when the release formulation differs.
Before your first dose, check the full product name and strength, how many to take and when, whether to take it with food, and how to swallow it. The full checklist is in how to switch methylphenidate brands safely.
What if the other brand releases the medicine differently?
Brands that release methylphenidate differently are not a like-for-like swap, so the switcher does not show them.
The methylphenidate dose converter shows how their doses line up through immediate-release methylphenidate. It is a guide for the conversation with your prescriber, not a prescription.
Common questions
Can I swap Concerta XL and Xaggitin XL?
They are in the NHS equivalent-tablet group. Your prescriber or pharmacist should still confirm the prescribed strength, quantity and suitability for you.
Does 50:50 mean Medikinet XL is the same as Ritalin XL?
No. Sharing a release percentage does not remove the product differences. Medikinet XL needs particular care, including its food requirement.
Why are Kixel XL and Tuzulby shown in grey?
They look similar to brands in a group, but they are not on the NHS list of equivalent brands. So they are not treated as a swap for any other brand.
My pharmacy gave me a different brand of methylphenidate. Is that allowed?
Modified-release methylphenidate should be prescribed and dispensed by brand name. If the pack is a different brand from your prescription, do not take it until the pharmacy has confirmed the change with your prescriber. If the prescription itself named the new brand, ask who agreed it and why, and check the food and swallowing instructions before your first dose.
Sources
- Prescribing and switching between modified-release methylphenidate. NHS Specialist Pharmacy Service
- Methylphenidate long-acting (modified-release) preparations: caution if switching between products due to differences in formulations. MHRA Drug Safety Update
This page is written for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Always follow the guidance of your prescriber or pharmacist. If you have concerns about your medication, contact your clinical team.
About this page
- Written by
- Adam OdusholaADHD Advanced Practitioner and Clinical Prescribing Pharmacist
- First published
- Last updated
“Last updated” is when the content last changed. “Last reviewed” is when it was last checked against current sources.
How this content is written, sourced and checked: editorial policy
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