CONCERTA




BRAND NAMES
STIMULANT MEDICATIONS METHYLPHENIDATE- Concerts, Daytrana Metadata CD, Metadata ER, Methylin Chewable, Methylin ER, Methylin Oral Suspension, PMS Methylphenidate, Ritalin, Ritalin LA, Ritalin SR, DEXMETHYLPHENIDATE- Focalin, Focalin XR


BASIC CONCERTA INFO
Habit forming? Yes
Prescription needed? Yes
Available as generic? Yes, for some
Drug class: Central nervous system stimulant, sympathomimetic


CONCERTA MEDICAL USES
Decreases over activity and lengthens attention span in children (and adults) with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

- A total treatment plan may also include educa-tional, social and psychological therapies.

- Treatment of depression in adults.

- Treatment for narcolepsy (uncontrollable attacks of sleepiness) and other disorders.



MEDICAL DOSAGE & CONCERTA USAGE
How to take CONCERTA:

- Tablet (short-acting): Swallow with liquid. Take as directed, usually 30-45 minutes before meals or with meals if stomach upset occurs.

- If swallowing is a problem, ask your pharmacist if tablet can be crushed and taken with liquid or small amount of food.

-Skin patch: Follow instructions on label.

- Extended or sustained release tablet and capsule: Swallow whole with liquid, usually before breakfast (or as directed).

- Do not crush tablet.

- Do not open capsule (unless your label states that the capsule may be opened and sprinkled over cool applesauce and then . swallowed right away).

- Oral solution or chewable tablet: Follow instructions on label.


When to take CONCERTA:

- At the same times each day.

- Regular tablets are often taken at breakfast and lunch (best not to take late in day).

- Extended-release forms are usually taken in the morning.


If you forget a dose:

- Take as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, wait for next scheduled dose (don't double this dose).


What drug does:

- Stimulates brain to improve alertness, concentration and attention span.

- Calms the hyperactive child and Improves ability to focus.


Time lapse before drug works:

- May take 2 or more weeks to see effectiveness.

- Dosage may be increased or decreased depending on the response and side effects.


Don't take with:

- Any other medicine or any dietary supplement without consulting your doctor or pharmacist.



CONCERTA OVERDOSE
SYMPTOMS:  Rapid heartbeat, fever, confusion, vomiting, agitation, hallucinations, convulsions, coma.
CONCERTA SIDE EFFECTS

Common Concerta Side Effects:

Fast heartbeat, blood pressure increased. Nervousness, appetite loss, trouble sleeping.

Infrequent Concerta Side Effects:

- Rash or hives, chest or joint pain, unusual bruising or bleeding, unable to control body movements, fever.  Nausea, dizziness, headache, stomach pain, drowsiness, and muscle cramps.

Rare Concerta Side Effects:

Changed or blurred vision, unusual vocal outbursts, convulsions, abnormal or manic behavior, trouble breathing, fainting, and hallucinations, is suspicious.
PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if:

- You are allergic to stimulant medications.


Before you start, consult your doctor if: 

- You have epilepsy or have seizures.

- You have high blood pressure, any heart or blood vessel disorder or liver problems.

- You have glaucoma.

- You take MAO inhibitors.

- You suffer from anxiety, agitation, and tension, depressive or psychotic problems or have Tourette's syndrome or motor tics.

- You have a history of drug or alcohol abuse.


Over age 60:

- Adverse reactions and side effects may be more frequent and severe than in younger persons.


Pregnancy:

- Decide with your doctor if drug benefits justify risk to unborn child.


Breast-feeding:

- It is unknown if drug passes into milk.

- Avoid drug or stop nursing until you finish medicine.

- Consult doctor for advice on maintaining milk supply.


Infants & children:

- Use only under medical supervision for children 6 or older.

- Regular doctor visits are important to monitor drug's effectiveness and side effects.


Prolonged use:

- Increased risk of weight loss and abnormal behaviors.

- Rare risk of physical growth retardation in children.

-  Talk to your doctor about the need for follow up medical examinations or laboratory studies to check drug's effectiveness and monitor any adverse effects.


Skin & sunlight:

- No problems expected.


Driving, piloting or hazardous work:

- Don't drive, ride a bicycle or pilot aircraft until you learn how drug affects you.

- Don't work around dangerous machinery.

- Don't climb ladders or work in high places.

- Danger increases if you drink alcohol or take drugs affecting alertness and reflexes.


Discontinuing:

- Don't discontinue without doctor's advice even if symptoms diminish or disappear.

- Withdrawal symptoms may occur after you discontinue the drug.

- Report to your doctor any new physical or emotional symptoms


Others:

- Drug may cause serious heart and psychiatric (mental) problems, including sudden death.

- Read warning information provided with prescription.

- Call doctor right away if symptoms develop (e.g., chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or hallucinations).

- Dose must be carefully adjusted by doctor.

- Advise any doctor or dentist whom you consult about the use of this medicine.





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