Methylphenidate

How To Take This Medication:

• This medication is best taken 30 to 45 minuets before a meal or take as directed by your doctor. Dosage depends on your condition and response to this medication. If loss of appetite occurs or if you experience stomach upset, it may be taken with of after meals or a snack. Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose, use it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. Also, if used for a long period of time do not stop suddenly without first consulting your doctor. When used for extended periods, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing. Consult your doctor if the medication isn’t working well.

• Loss of appetite, blurred vision, dizziness, lightheadedness, dry mouth, stomach upset, sleeplessness, irritability, or constipation may occur the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: weight loss, chest pain, nervousness, pounding heart, difficulty urinating, mood changes, yellowing of eyes and skin. In the unlikely event you have and allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling , dizziness, trouble breathing. If your notice other bothersome side effects contact your doctor or pharmacist.

• Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: seizures or motor tics, Tourette’s disorder, glaucoma, high blood pressure, severe anxiety, alcoholism, drug dependence, mental conditions, any allergies. If this medication makes you dizzy or lightheaded use caution when driving or engaging in activities requiring alertness. Methylphenidate should be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if Methylphenidate is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

• Tell your doctor of all over-the-counter and prescription drugs you may use, especially: Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin); medications for seizures; medicine for depression (tricyclic anti depressants such as amitriptyline); high blood pressure medicine (e.g., guanethidine). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

• Do not allow anyone else to take this medication. Store at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F ( between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.
  If you miss a dose, take as soon as you remember and take any remaining doses at evenly spaced times. If it is near bedtime or near time for the next dose, skip that dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not “double-up” the dose to catch up.