Stimulant Dose Conversion Calculator
Estimate equivalent dosages when switching ADHD medications.
Methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta)
Amphetamine Salts (Adderall IR/XR)
Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)
Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin)
Methylphenidate Patch (Daytrana)
Methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta)
Amphetamine Salts (Adderall IR/XR)
Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)
Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin)
Estimated Equivalent Dose:
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER: This calculator is for informational purposes for healthcare professionals and patients to facilitate discussions. It is based on average clinical conversion ratios. Individual metabolism varies significantly. Never change or start a medication dose without a direct prescription and supervision from a licensed physician.
How Stimulant Conversion Works
Stimulant medications used to treat ADHD typically fall into two categories: methylphenidates and amphetamines. While they both increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, they do so through different mechanisms and have different potencies.
A common clinical "rule of thumb" is that amphetamine-based products (like Adderall) are roughly twice as potent as methylphenidate-based products (like Ritalin). For example, 10mg of Adderall is often considered roughly equivalent to 20mg of Ritalin in terms of symptom control.
Conversion Ratio Table
| Medication Type | Relative Potency Factor |
|---|---|
| Methylphenidate (Ritalin) | 1.0 (Baseline) |
| Adderall (Amphetamine Salts) | 2.0 |
| Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine) | 0.66 |
| Focalin (Dexmethylphenidate) | 2.0 |
Examples of Common Conversions
- Adderall to Vyvanse: Because Vyvanse is a prodrug that must be metabolized by red blood cells, the mg-to-mg dose is much higher. 30mg of Vyvanse is roughly equivalent to 10-12mg of Adderall IR.
- Ritalin to Concerta: These both use Methylphenidate. If a patient takes Ritalin 10mg three times a day (30mg total), a 36mg Concerta is often the starting point for extended-release coverage.
- Focalin vs Ritalin: Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin) is the isolated right-handed isomer of methylphenidate and is twice as potent as the racemic mix found in Ritalin.
Important Considerations
When switching medications, doctors often "cross-titrate" or start at a lower-than-equivalent dose to ensure the patient tolerates the new delivery system. Factors like gastric pH, age, and genetic metabolic speed (CYP2D6 enzyme activity) can drastically change how these numbers apply to a specific individual.