ADHD Medication Conversion Calculator
Estimate equivalent dosages when switching between stimulant medications.
Methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta)
Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin)
Mixed Amphetamine Salts (Adderall)
Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine)
Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)
Methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta)
Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin)
Mixed Amphetamine Salts (Adderall)
Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine)
Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)
Estimated Equivalent:
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER: This calculator is for informational purposes only and is based on general clinical conversion ratios. It is NOT a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Medication potency varies significantly between individuals based on metabolism, genetics, and comorbidities. Always consult your prescribing physician before changing medication or dosage.
Understanding ADHD Medication Conversion
Switching between ADHD medications—often referred to as "cross-titration"—is common when a patient experiences plateaus in efficacy or unmanageable side effects. However, ADHD medications are not a "one-to-one" milligram switch. Different compounds interact with dopamine and norepinephrine transporters with varying levels of potency.
The two primary classes of stimulants are Methylphenidates (like Ritalin or Concerta) and Amphetamines (like Adderall or Vyvanse). Generally, amphetamine-based products are considered approximately twice as potent as methylphenidate-based products on a milligram-for-milligram basis.
Common Conversion Ratios
| Medication Class | Examples | Relative Potency |
|---|---|---|
| Methylphenidate | Ritalin, Concerta, Daytrana | 1x (Baseline) |
| Dexmethylphenidate | Focalin, Focalin XR | 2x Potency |
| Amphetamine Salts | Adderall, Adderall XR | 2x – 2.5x Potency |
| Lisdexamfetamine | Vyvanse | 0.3x – 0.4x (Dose is higher due to lysine bond) |
Examples of Typical Conversions
- Example 1: If a patient is taking 20mg of Ritalin (Methylphenidate), the equivalent dose of Adderall (Mixed Amphetamine Salts) is typically 10mg.
- Example 2: Converting 30mg of Adderall to Vyvanse usually results in a dose of approximately 70mg. This is because Vyvanse is a prodrug; much of the pill's weight is the amino acid lysine, which must be cleaved off by the body to activate the medication.
- Example 3: Focalin is the isolated right-handed isomer of methylphenidate, making it roughly twice as strong as standard Ritalin. 10mg of Ritalin $\approx$ 5mg of Focalin.
Factors That Affect Your Real-World Dose
While a calculator provides a mathematical starting point, several biological factors determine how you will actually respond to a new medication:
- Metabolic Rate: Fast metabolizers may process short-acting medications too quickly, requiring higher doses or extended-release formulations.
- Delivery Mechanism: An IR (Immediate Release) tablet hits the bloodstream differently than an OROS system (Concerta) or beaded XR capsule.
- Comorbidities: Conditions like anxiety, sleep apnea, or thyroid issues can change how stimulants affect your focus and heart rate.
- Acidity (pH Levels): Specifically for amphetamines, high intake of Vitamin C or acidic juices can decrease absorption, effectively lowering your dose.