Dr. Ryan Sultan - Focalin shortage

Focalin Shortage: Status by Dose

FDA shortage status, updated October 2026
Dr. Ryan S. Sultan, MD | Assistant Professor, Columbia University

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Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center
Data updated:

Quick Answer: Is There a Focalin Shortage?

Not as of October 8, 2026. The FDA Drug Shortages Database has no current shortage listing for dexmethylphenidate (Focalin and Focalin XR).

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FDA status, October 2026

This page is generated from the FDA Drug Shortages Database and refreshed monthly. A listing is one package (NDC) a manufacturer reports; counts describe how many products are affected, not how much supply exists.

No package listing for dexmethylphenidate (Focalin and Focalin XR) appears in the database this month. An unlisted product can still be hard to find at a particular pharmacy, because the database tracks national supply reported by manufacturers, not local stock.

Switching: what the label says

Dexmethylphenidate is the active half of methylphenidate, so the doses run lower. The Focalin XR label sets the starting dose for someone on methylphenidate at half the current total daily methylphenidate dose, and for someone on immediate-release Focalin at the same daily dose.

Source: Focalin XR prescribing information (DailyMed). The within-class substitution principles on the main shortage page cover switching more broadly.

If your pharmacy can't fill it

  1. Call before the prescription is sent. Ask whether the exact strength is in stock, and which manufacturer's product they carry.
  2. Ask about another strength combination. Two tablets or capsules of a lower strength can make the same dose when one strength is short. This needs a new prescription written that way.
  3. Ask about another form of the same medication before changing medications, using the label rule above.
  4. Bring your prescriber the specifics: the strength, what the pharmacy has, and when they expect resupply. The patient framework on the main shortage page goes through this in order.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a Focalin shortage right now?

Not as of October 8, 2026. The FDA Drug Shortages Database has no current shortage listing for dexmethylphenidate (Focalin and Focalin XR).

What can I take if Focalin is unavailable?

Dexmethylphenidate is the active half of methylphenidate, so the doses run lower. The Focalin XR label sets the starting dose for someone on methylphenidate at half the current total daily methylphenidate dose, and for someone on immediate-release Focalin at the same daily dose. Any switch should be made with your prescriber.

Related

ADHD stimulant shortage: causes and strategy · Vyvanse · Adderall XR · Concerta · Ritalin · Dexedrine · Concerta vs Ritalin · Non-stimulant options

Educational information only. Not medical advice. Do not change a dose or medication without your prescriber.