Is it possible to obtain Concerta (methylphenidate) 54mg without food coloring, or would taking 2x27mg tablets be a safer alternative to minimize exposure to red dye?

From the Guidelines

It is highly recommended to explore alternative methylphenidate formulations without food coloring, such as Quillivant XR (liquid) or Quillichew ER (chewable), rather than attempting to find a dye-free Concerta 54mg tablet or taking 2x27mg tablets, as these alternatives can provide the same active medication without the coloring agents. Obtaining Concerta (methylphenidate) without food coloring is challenging as all standard formulations contain dyes, including the 54mg tablets which contain red dye. According to the practice parameter for the use of stimulant medications in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults 1, Concerta has been shown to be a useful alternative to older stimulant medications, but it does not address the issue of food coloring. Taking two 27mg tablets instead of one 54mg tablet would not reduce your exposure to food coloring, as the 27mg tablets also contain dyes. If you're concerned about food dye sensitivity, speaking with your healthcare provider about switching to a dye-free methylphenidate alternative is the best option. These alternatives can provide the same active medication without the coloring agents, and your doctor can help determine the most appropriate dye-free option based on your specific needs, insurance coverage, and medication response history.

Some key points to consider:

• Concerta 54mg tablets contain red dye, and alternative formulations may be necessary to minimize exposure to food coloring
• The 27mg tablets also contain dyes, making them not a suitable alternative for reducing food coloring exposure
• Quillivant XR (liquid) and Quillichew ER (chewable) are dye-free methylphenidate alternatives that can provide the same active medication without the coloring agents
• Generic methylphenidate compounded by a specialty pharmacy without dyes is also an option, but it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

From the Research

Availability of Concerta 54mg without Food Coloring

• There is no direct evidence from the provided studies that addresses the availability of Concerta 54mg without food coloring.
• The studies primarily focus on the efficacy and safety of methylphenidate, including Concerta, in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
• However, it is mentioned that the 36mg Concerta tablets are white, while the 54mg tablets are red, and the 18mg tablets are yellow [2 is not relevant to this point, but it is the only study that mentions specific details about Concerta].

Alternative Options

• One possible alternative is to use two 27mg tablets, which are grey in color, to achieve a total dose of 54mg.
• However, there is no information available on the food coloring used in the 27mg tablets, and it is unclear whether this would be a safer option in terms of minimizing exposure to food dyes.

Manufacturer Information

• There is no information available from the provided studies on whether any manufacturer produces Concerta 54mg tablets without food coloring.
• It may be necessary to contact the manufacturer or a pharmacist to inquire about the availability of Concerta 54mg tablets without food coloring.