Jornay PM vs. Ritalin: What’s the Difference?

Ritalin, as a first-generation ADHD medication, is one of the biggest names in treating ADHD symptoms. However, the recent release of Jornay PM offers patients an innovative and effective alternative.

So, which one is more effective in treating ADHD symptoms? Is newer better, or does Ritalin’s longevity also indicate its effectiveness? 

To answer these questions, you first need to understand how each medication affects the body and brain. In this article, we’ll explore how Ritalin and Jornay PM each work and outline their unique benefits and drawbacks.

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 vs. Ritalin, a psychiatric expert will be able to prescribe you the right medication based on your unique ADHD 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 ADHD treatment plan, including an effective and safe prescription for ADHD medication, if applicable.

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 stimulant medicaton 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 attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

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

Jornay PM is a Schedule II stimulant medication, classified as a federally controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and misuse. As a stimulant, it affects the central nervous system and has been shown to help treat common symptoms of ADHD. However, it’s important to exercise caution and follow medical guidance to minimize the risk of dependency and misuse.

Misuse of Jornay PM can lead to adverse effects such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, insomnia, anxiety, and potential psychological dependence. To avoid dependency, it is crucial to take Jornay PM strictly as prescribed, adhering to the recommended dosage and duration. 

Individuals with a history of substance abuse should consult their physician before starting Jornay PM or any medication that affects the central nervous system to ensure appropriate precautions are in place.

Additionally, 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 heart complications or abnormalities, consult with a healthcare provider before taking this medication. Stimulants can cause dangerous interactions with individuals experiencing these issues. 

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—a Schedule II stimulant—is classified as a  federally controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and addiction. Like Jornay PM, it’s often prescribed to treat ADHD. However, it is important to exercise caution and seek medical advice if you have a history of substance abuse before considering Ritalin. Taking Ritalin exactly as prescribed is the best way to avoid dependency. 

Additionally, if you experience any heart-related issues while taking Ritalin, such as palpitations, irregular heartbeat, or circulation problems, it is crucial to contact a physician immediately before continuing its use. These symptoms may require prompt medical attention to ensure your well-being and safety.

Jornay PM or Ritalin: Which One is Right for You?

Jornay PM and Ritalin use the same active ingredient: methylphenidate. However, they have drastically different delivery systems. For individuals suffering from severe ADHD, Jornay PM may provide more effective relief. 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 ADHD 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 ADHD medication best suited for you, if applicable.