Methylphenidate is used for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It works by stimulating the brain to increase attention, concentration, reduce impulsive and hyperactiv behaviour and manage certain sleep disorders.
Methylphenidate is available as an immediate-release preparation or modified-release preparations.
The immediate-release preparation releases the medication relatively quickly in the body and the effects wear-off over a few hours.
Modified-release preparations mean that the medication is released slowly during the day, for a longer duration of effect. These preparations have the letters 'LA' (long-acting), 'SR' (sustained-release), 'MR' (modified-release) or 'ER' (extended-release) after the brand name, and may differ in their duration of effects.
Common side effects include:
Inform your doctor if the side effects above become severe and bothersome.
Very rarely, this medication may cause
The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.
Inform your healthcare professional if:
IMPORTANT:
In rare cases, this medication may cause the following changes to a person's mental condition, especially in the first few weeks of treatment or during dose changes:
Please inform your doctor as soon as possible, or for your family or caregiver to inform your doctor if you are unable to seek treatment on your own.
Do not stop taking this medication on your own without discussing with your doctor.
It is important to note that your doctor has prescribed this medication as he/she feels you will benefit more from taking this medication over the possible risks that it may cause, which have a low chance of occurring, and most people take this medication without any of such problems.
Avoid taking alcohol when you are taking this medication as alcohol may interact with your medication and increase the risk of side effects.
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.
Pack this medication into a trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.
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