FOCALIN (dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride)
Focalin is a central nervous system stimulant used for patients with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It helps individuals manage the symptoms associated with this condition by acting on the brain and nerves. This medication is typically prescribed to help improve focus and control impulsivity in those diagnosed with ADHD.
How FOCALIN Works
Focalin works by stimulating the central nervous system. Although it is effective for managing symptoms, the specific way the drug produces its therapeutic effect in patients with ADHD is not currently known.
Details
- Status
- Prescription
- First Approved
- 2001-11-13
- Routes
- ORAL
- Dosage Forms
- TABLET
FOCALIN Approval History
What FOCALIN Treats
1 indicationsFOCALIN is approved for 1 conditions since its original approval in 2001. These indications span multiple therapeutic areas including oncology, immunology, and more.
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
FOCALIN Boxed Warning
ABUSE, MISUSE, AND ADDICTION Focalin 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 Focalin, 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 Focalin, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction. Educate patients...
WARNING: ABUSE, MISUSE, AND ADDICTION Focalin 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 Focalin, 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 Focalin, 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 Focalin 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. Focalin 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 Focalin, can result in overdose and death ( 5.1 , 9.2 , 10 ): • Before prescribing Focalin, 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.
FOCALIN Competitive Set
ProThree rings of competition based on shared molecular targets and treated indications.
Indication competitors
Same indication, different mechanism — what else might this patient receive?
Filters applied: drops same-active-ingredient (505(b)(2) reformulations), route-mismatch (topical vs systemic), and cross-therapeutic-area matches in same-indication rings.
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Active Pipeline
Ongoing clinical trials by development phase
Key Completed Trials
Completed studies with published results, ranked by significance
Trial Timeline
Full development history with FDA approval milestones
Understanding FDA Approval Types
| Count | Type | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| - | ORIG | Original approval - drug first enters market |
| - | SUPPL - Efficacy | New indication (new disease/condition approved) |
| - | SUPPL - Labeling | Label text changes (warnings, dosing updates) |
| - | SUPPL - Manufacturing | Production changes (new facility) |
| - | SUPPL - Chemistry | Formulation changes (new dosage strength) |
Green lines in the timeline show ORIG and Efficacy approvals - the clinically meaningful milestones.
FOCALIN FDA Label Details
Indications & Usage
FDA Label (PDF)FOCALIN is indicated for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
WARNING: ABUSE, MISUSE, AND ADDICTION Focalin 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 Focalin, can result in overdose and death [see Overdosage ( 10 )] , and this risk...
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Data Sources
Data sourced from official FDA and NIH databases. Click links to verify on original sources.