Jornay PM is one of the newest ADHD medications on the market, and Ritalin is among the first generation of ADHD medications. So, which one is more effective to treat ADHD symptoms? Is newer better, or does Ritalin’s longevity also indicate its effectiveness?
The answer to these questions actually has little to do with when they entered the market and more to do with how they affect the body and brain. In this article, we’ll outline the benefits and drawbacks of each medication to help you determine which one is right for you.
When deciding between two medications to treat your ADHD, you should always speak to a medical professional. While this article discusses the general differences between Jornay PM and Ritalin, a psychiatric expert will be able to prescribe you the right medication based on your unique symptoms, medical history, and more.
To speak to a healthcare provider for low-cost, convenient online ADHD treatment, schedule an appointment on Klarity today. Klarity will connect you with an ADHD specialist who can diagnose your symptoms and provide you with a personalized treatment plan, including an effective and safe prescription for ADHD medication, if applicable.
| Jornay PM | Ritalin | |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | Schedule II stimulant | Schedule II stimulant |
| Brand/Generic Status | Brand name for methylphenidate | Brand name for methylphenidate |
| Form(s) of the Drug | Color-coded, extended-release capsules | Immediate-release and extended-release tablets |
| Standard Dosage | Standard capsule dosages: • 20mg: seafoam green • 40mg: forest green • 60mg: teal green • 80mg: medium blue • 100mg: dark blue | Standard tablet dosages: • 5mg • 10mg • 20mg • 40mg |
| Conditions Treated | FDA-approved uses: • ADHD | FDA-approved uses: • ADHD • Narcolepsy |
| Cost | Brand-name: • $450 to $500 for a one-month supply No generic currently available for Rx | Brand-name: • $95 to $129 for a one-month supply Generic form (methylphenidate): • $50 for a one-month supply |
| Side-Effects | Common side effects: • Anxiety • Exacerbated bipolar symptoms • New manic or psychosis symptoms • Sleep issues • Nausea • Decreased appetite • Mood swings • Restlessness • Headaches Serious side effects: • Allergic reaction • Hives • Swollen face or hands • Trouble breathing | Common side effects: • Loss of appetite • Anxiety • Trouble sleeping • Elevated heart rate • Increased blood pressure Serious side effects: • Blurred or changed vision • Uncontrollable outbursts or tics • Chest pain • Fever • Joint pain • Allergic reaction • Hives • Swollen face or hands • Trouble breathing |
| Warnings For Use | Contraindicated conditions: • Heart conditions • Cardiac abnormalities • History of drug abuse Adverse drug interactions: • Alcohol • MAOIs • Antidepressants | Contraindicated conditions: • Heart condition • History of drug abuse Adverse drug interactions: • Blood thinners • Blood pressure medication • Seizure medication • Antidepressants • Decongestants |
What is Jornay PM?
Jornay PM (active ingredient: methylphenidate hydrochloride) is a stimulant medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is similar in formulation to Daytrana and Ritalin.
This time-released medication features a unique delivery system and is one of the only ADHD stimulants taken at bedtime. Recently approved by the FDA, Jornay PM is approved for use in anyone six years of age or older.
Forms and Dosages
Jornay PM capsules are filled with microbeads that feature two layers of protection—a delayed-release and an extended-release layer. The delayed-release layer allows the capsules to sit in the stomach and intestines for up to 12 hours before releasing any medication.
Once the delayed-release layer is fully absorbed by the morning, the medication maintains a steady release into the bloodstream for the duration of the day.
Jornay PM’s unique delivery allows an ADHD sufferer to wake with a full dose of ADHD medication in their system, bypassing the typical wait time between ingestion and activation in the body. This gives an individual the ability to start their day easier as they wake with a full dose of medication already working in their body.
Jornay PM capsules come in 20 mg, 40 mg, 60 mg, 80 mg, and 100 mg doses. Dosage is not determined by the height, weight, and age of the individual but rather by how well their body metabolizes the capsules. Jornay PM can be taken with or without food and should only be taken in the evening before bedtime.
Conditions Treated
Jornay PM was recently FDA-approved for use in individuals suffering from ADHD.
Costs
Jornay PM is not currently in generic form and is only available as a brand-name medication. The average retail price of Jornay PM without health insurance is approximately between $450 and $500. Pricing depends on the pharmacy carrying the medication.
For accurate pricing information under your current health insurance, contact your provider’s pharmacy department.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Jornay PM include but are not limited to:
- Anxiety
- Exacerbated bipolar symptoms
- New manic or psychosis symptoms
- Sleep issues
- Nausea
- Decreased appetite
- Mood swings
- Restlessness
- Headaches
If, after taking this medication, you begin experiencing an allergic reaction, including hives, swelling of the face and hands, or trouble breathing, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Warnings and Drug Interactions
Alcohol consumption will cause the Jornay PM capsules to dissolve quicker and should be avoided while taking this medication. Anyone taking an MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor) or antidepressant should consult their healthcare provider first before taking this medication.
If you have any kind of heart complications or abnormalities, consult with a healthcare provider before taking this medication, as stimulants can cause dangerous interactions with individuals experiencing these issues.
Jornay PM is a federally controlled substance with the potential for abuse and addiction. If you have a history of substance abuse, speak with a physician before taking this medication.
What is Ritalin?
Ritalin (active ingredient: methylphenidate) is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, adolescents, and adults. This CNS stimulant works by affecting the neurotransmitters that control behaviors like focus, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Ritalin is one of the very first ADHD medications to hit the market and is a federally controlled substance. Methylphenidate was introduced to the market in 1956 and is approved for use in anyone six years of age or older.
Forms and Dosages
Ritalin comes in 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, and a max dosage of 40 mg. The IR (immediate-release) formulation can be taken twice a day with or without meals and lasts up to four hours, while the sustained-release and extended-release versions are taken once per day and can last up to 10-12 hours.
Conditions Treated
Ritalin is FDA-approved for use in those with ADHD and narcolepsy.
Costs
Ritalin comes in brand name and generic versions. A one-month supply of 5 mg generic Ritalin will cost approximately $50 without health insurance. For accurate pricing under your current health insurance plan, contact your provider’s pharmacy department. Online manufacturers and third-party coupons may offset the “out-of-pocket” cost of Ritalin.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Ritalin include but are not limited to:
- Loss of appetite
- Anxiety
- Trouble sleeping
- Elevated heart rate
- Increased blood pressure
Severe but less common side effects of Ritalin include but are not limited to:
- Blurred or changed vision
- Uncontrollable outbursts or tics
- Chest pain
- Fever
- Joint pain
If you experience an allergic reaction from this medication, including hives, swelling of the hands, face, or feet, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
Warnings and Drug Interactions
Ritalin is a federally controlled substance and maintains the potential for abuse and addiction. If you have a history of substance abuse, speak with a physician before taking this medication. If you experience any heart problems–palpitations, irregular heartbeat, circulation issues–while taking this medication, contact a physician immediately before continuing use.
Jornay PM or Ritalin: Which One is Right for You?
Jornay PM and Ritalin use the same active ingredient, methylphenidate. However, they maintain drastically different delivery systems. For individuals suffering from severe ADHD, Jornay PM may provide the relief they need. It comes in much higher dosage forms than Ritalin, and is only available as an extended-release capsule to provide all-day relief.
That said, Jornay PM is more expensive because it doesn’t have a generic version yet. While Ritalin typically costs around $90 for 100 5mg tablets and $175 for 100 20mg tablets, its generic version can bring prices down to just $50. Jornay PM can be difficult to obtain for those without insurance, as prices can range from $450 to $500 for a one-month supply.
When deciding between these two stimulant medications, it is important that you consult an experienced medical professional. Even though Jornay PM and Ritalin consist of the same active drug, contraindications and unique symptoms can make one medication effective and one dangerous.
Get Prescribed ADHD Treatment With Help From Klarity
Klarity can connect you with a healthcare provider to help you determine if either of these medications will be effective in managing your ADHD symptoms. Find a provider for affordable online ADHD treatment, including a diagnosis and prescription for Jornay PM, Ritalin, or the medication best suited for you, if applicable.
