RITALIN vs RITALIN LA
Independent side-by-side comparison.
Rating
68/100
68/100
Pharmacy pays
~$18.94 /30
~$18.94 /30
Type
RX
RX
Active ingredient
METHYLPHENIDATE HYDROCHLORIDE
METHYLPHENIDATE HYDROCHLORIDE
Dosage forms
Tablet
Capsule, extended release
Drug class
Central Nervous System Stimulant
Central Nervous System Stimulant
Boxed warning
Half-life
about 2.7 hours
about 2.7 hours
Treats
Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity, Depressive Disorder, Narcolepsy
Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity, Depressive Disorder, Narcolepsy
Frequently asked questions
Which is better-rated, Ritalin or Ritalin La?
Ritalin and Ritalin La are tied at 3.4 out of 5 by our independent rating.
Which is cheaper, Ritalin or Ritalin La?
Pharmacies pay about the same to acquire either one — roughly $18.94 for a 30-count supply, per the CMS NADAC survey. That is not what you will be charged: your price is set by your insurer and the pharmacy, not by what the drug cost them.
What is the difference between Ritalin and Ritalin La?
Both Ritalin and Ritalin La share the active ingredient Methylphenidate Hydrochloride.
Ratings are based on FDA regulatory (recall-safety) data. This comparison is for general reference only — not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional before choosing or switching a medication.