Medikinet XL (methylphenidate modified-release capsules)

ADHD in children (6+), young people and adults. The adult licence makes it a straightforward prescribing choice in adult ADHD when methylphenidate is preferred.

Same methylphenidate mechanism. The 50:50 bead composition means a larger immediate-release component than other MR brands, producing a higher initial peak followed by a second release phase. This bimodal profile mimics twice-daily IR dosing in a single capsule.

Children, young people and adults with ADHD. Particularly suitable when a strong initial onset is preferred. The adult licence avoids off-label prescribing issues. Sprinkle option available for those who can’t swallow capsules. Must be taken with or after breakfast (food significantly affects absorption of the extended-release component).

Order online and we review your request. A prescriber checks your consultation form for clinical appropriateness and contacts you if anything else is needed. Once approved, your medication is dispensed and delivered to your door. Controlled drugs require additional clinical checks. We may need to contact you or your GP before dispensing.

Tracked: Tracked delivery, arrives in two working days - Free

When it arrives: Every order is sent tracked. Where this page says in post today, it goes out today. Where it says in post tomorrow, it goes out the next working day. On the rare occasions a medicine is unavailable, we will contact you to talk about timing and alternatives.

We dispense clinically equivalent generic medications where available. Prices shown are for the generic version. If you prefer the branded version, let us know in your order form and we will confirm any price difference.

Medikinet XL from £34.99 per pack.

Very common: decreased appetite, insomnia, headache, dry mouth, nausea. Common: palpitations, tachycardia, weight loss, abdominal pain, mood changes (anxiety, irritability), tremor. Uncommon: psychotic symptoms (hallucinations, paranoia). Monitor: growth (in children), cardiovascular parameters, psychiatric symptoms.

Do not use in severe cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension, hyperthyroidism, phaeochromocytoma, during or within 14 days of MAOIs. Use with caution in anxiety, psychosis, tics, seizure disorders, substance misuse history.

MAOIs: contraindicated (hypertensive crisis). Antihypertensives: stimulants may reduce their effect. SSRIs: caution with serotonergic effects. Alcohol: avoid.

Limited data in pregnancy. Stimulants may affect fetal growth. Use only if benefit clearly outweighs risk. Discuss with specialist before conception. Not recommended during breastfeeding.

MUST be taken with or immediately after breakfast - food is essential for correct release of the extended component. Can be opened and sprinkled on a spoonful of apple sauce (do not chew beads, swallow immediately). Coverage approximately 8 hours. The 50:50 split means a higher initial peak than Concerta XL or Equasym XL - good for morning focus but may cause a more noticeable ‘come-down’ as it wears off. Licensed for adults (unlike Concerta XL, which is used off-label in adults). Amphetamine-based medications are the other major class of stimulants. They work slightly differently to methylphenidate - they increase dopamine release (rather than just blocking reuptake), which can make them more effective for some patients. NICE recommends lisdexamfetamine as first-line alongside methylphenidate in adults, and as second-line in children after methylphenidate.