Does the brand-name Concerta (methylphenidate) come in a 72 mg tablet?

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Last updated: February 11, 2026 • View editorial policy

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Brand-Name Concerta 72mg Availability

Brand-name Concerta does NOT come in a 72mg tablet. The maximum single-tablet strength available for brand-name Concerta (OROS-methylphenidate) is 54mg 1, 2.

Available Concerta Strengths

Brand-name Concerta tablets are manufactured in the following strengths:

Maximum Dosing Considerations

The maximum recommended daily dose of Concerta is 72mg, but this refers to total daily dose, not a single tablet strength 1. To achieve a 72mg daily dose, clinicians must prescribe:

  • Two 36mg tablets, OR
  • One 54mg tablet plus one 18mg tablet

Both combinations would be taken together once daily in the morning 3.

Clinical Context

The OROS delivery system used in Concerta provides 12-hour coverage through an osmotic pump mechanism 1, 4, 5. The ascending plasma concentration profile is specifically engineered into each tablet strength, which is why a 72mg single tablet does not exist—the osmotic pump system would need to be redesigned for that dose 1, 2.

Common Pitfall to Avoid

Do not confuse the maximum daily dose (72mg) with available tablet strengths. When prescribing 72mg daily, you must write for multiple tablets to be taken simultaneously, not a single 72mg tablet 1.

References

1
Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

3
Guideline

Methylphenidate Extended-Release Formulations

Praxis Medical Insights: Practical Summaries of Clinical Guidelines, 2026

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Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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