In short: Concerta (extended-release methylphenidate) costs R1,213 to R1,498 per pack at the regulated Single Exit Price, depending on strength. The generic Meglarat PR costs R658 per pack for every strength.
Educational content only. auDHD.co.za is written by members of the neurodivergent community, not medical professionals. We are not registered with the HPCSA. Nothing here is a diagnosis or medical advice — please speak to a registered psychologist, psychiatrist or doctor. Full disclaimer.
Concerta is a long-acting form of methylphenidate that uses an osmotic (OROS) tablet to release the medicine over about 10 to 12 hours. It is one of the most prescribed ADHD medicines in South Africa.
Concerta price in South Africa
| Product | Strength | SEP per pack |
|---|---|---|
| Concerta | 18mg | R1,212.62 |
| Concerta | 27mg | R1,224.10 |
| Concerta | 36mg | R1,319.72 |
| Concerta | 54mg | R1,498.32 |
| Meglarat PR (generic) | 18/27/36/54mg | R657.55 |
Prices are the regulated Single Exit Price (SEP) per pack from the Medicine Price Registry, viewed 31 October 2026, unless stated otherwise. Pharmacies may add a regulated dispensing fee. Pack sizes differ — check the price per tablet with your pharmacist.
Generic Concerta in South Africa
Meglarat PR is a prolonged-release methylphenidate generic. Ask your prescriber and pharmacist whether it is a suitable substitute for you — some people notice differences in how extended-release generics feel across the day.
How Concerta works
Methylphenidate blocks the reuptake of dopamine and noradrenaline, increasing their availability in the brain. Concerta releases a small amount immediately and the rest gradually.
Common side effects
- Reduced appetite and weight loss
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Headache, stomach ache
- Raised heart rate and blood pressure
- Irritability or anxiety; “wearing-off” in the late afternoon
Ways to reduce the cost
- Ask for the generic.
- Use a pharmacy in your medical aid’s network to avoid co-payments.
- Register ADHD as a chronic condition if your plan allows — see the comparison.
Frequently asked questions
Is Meglarat the same as Concerta?
Both contain methylphenidate in a prolonged-release form; the release technology can differ. Your prescriber can advise.
Do I need a new prescription every month?
Yes. Methylphenidate is Schedule 6, so prescriptions are valid for 30 days with no repeats.
Compare with Ritalin or see the full ADHD medication guide.
Sources & further reading
- Medicine Price Registry SEP data via medicineprices.org.za
- NHS — Medication for ADHD
- NICE NG87 — ADHD diagnosis and management
- SAHPRA — package inserts and medicine information
Last checked: 31 October 2026. If you spot something out of date, tell us.