What Is the Difference Between Focalin & Ritalin? Ritalin and Focalin are two of the commonly prescribed drugs used for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Knowing the differences between these medications may be helpful when developing a plan of action for ADHD treatment. Focalin, or dexmethylphenidate, is a mild stimulant that is most commonly used to treat ADHD.